fabiochiu/medium-articles huggingface dataset:
I Was Quarantined… What It Was Like As A Senior In High School:
By: Ian Nierman
Tags: Covid 19, Pandemic, My Experience, Teens, Quarantinelife

Whether you are an adult or a young adult, we all can agree on one thing… 2020 has been crazy all in itself. From the lockdown to the crazy rules we have to follow to try and end this pandemic.

Being in school during this time is somewhat hard. Having to go to school full time to going only half the time to then going full online and having to do zoom calls, a bit stressful if you ask me.

While being in school before it got bad, I would notice at times students would just, disappear. Small groups at a time. One by one, they would just be gone. I would catch myself sitting here wondering who was where and if there even was a student that sat at that desk before?

I was at work around 5pm, I got a call from my father from the work phone. I was told I had to come home and quarantine. I was frustrated and mad all at the same time. A student in my health class tested positive for Covid-19. I was in close proximity of the student, which meant that I could possibly get it. But who was I to blame? I got to go home and do school instead of going to actual school.

It didn’t hit me until I got home and realized I couldn’t work, I couldn’t go see loved ones, nor could I even come out of my room. Boredom was going to hit hard. But did it?

I was able to finally play video games without anyone telling me I was playing too much or I needed to go do something else with my life. Everyday I got up and did my school work. It was on a constant repeat for the next 11 days that I spent alone, isolated, in what felt like a dungeon. A dungeon that had no way in, and no way out.

Was I going crazy?

I wanted interaction with anything besides myself. I felt alone, abandoned like a stray dog. I felt like a robot, only knowing how to speak a certain way, move a certain way, walk a certain way. I wanted out of what I felt was nothing.

Soon I was tested, and of course, it was negative. I should have known.. I never had any symptoms. No sign of sickness at all.

What I did to pass time:

I usually caught myself playing video games or bench watching a show on netflix. My main attraction to this whole thing was sleep, I got a lot of it. In between sleep and video games, I really just watched youtube or facetimed friends and family.

Was my quarantine time a waste?

Did I really waste my time quarantining? I understood in the end why I did it. It was indeed for the greater good, doing my part to stop this pandemic. Did it make stir crazy? A little perhaps, but in my defense. It helped ensure that I and others were safe.
Teen Cannot Understand Why There are Toilets in the Vape Lounges
By: Planet X Media
Tags: Vaping, News, Vape Lounge, Toilets, Teens

WISCONSIN — A teen and high school student were being interviewed about the conditions of his school. However, rather than answer most of the questions, the teen remained fixed on a certain topic regarding his utter confusion so as to why there are toilets in his high school’s vape lounges.

“Yeah, like, I hang out in the vape lounges a lot, you know, and it’s like whatever bro, but I just can’t understand why in the world are toilets in there? I mean, who put them there? What purpose do they serve? There’s also, like urinals and sinks and stuff, and other than the few snitches who, like, actually use them, I just don’t know why the heck they’re in there,” said the teen.

Apparently, many other teens at not only this school but many others around the country have also admitted to having toilets in their school’s vape lounges. With that comes more confusion as to their reason for being there. Luckily, some schools are now considering redesigning their vape lounges for higher efficiency and practicality, also to prevent more confusion in the future.
Teen Threatens Violence During School Talent Show If He “Has to Hear One More Ukulele Girl Singing About Love”
By: Planet X Media
Tags: News, Teens, Violence, Ukulele, Singing

MISSOURI — At a local High School, during the school’s annual talent show, a teenage boy and student of the school threatened himself and the school with violence if he “has to hear one more out-of-tune ukulele girl singing bad pop songs about being in love.”

The school took immediate action against the threats and decided to stop the entire show right then and there, even when half of it still remained. The event organizer looked down a 3-mile-long list of endless numbers of ukulele girls singing popular songs about love and was forced to cancel the rest of the scheduled event lest the school be in severe danger.

So, everybody went home, and for once after a high school talent show, people were not completely and utterly irritated. In fact, the school is considering doing this for every talent show due to very high approval from the staff and student body on the new schedule, well, that is, compared to other years. To make the best show they can, from now on the school will be limiting the number of talentless girls who can’t sing but can play 2 chords on an ukulele to a reasonable 0.
my life right now as a teen
By: Ashley Mcbroom
Tags: Teenagers, Life, Travel, Teens, Toxic Friends

currently I’m a teenage girl who is unemployed and constantly looking for a hobby in my spare time (when I'm not applying for jobs). The only thing I seem to be certain about is my dream, I hope to pursue a career as a writer. And it seems the only thing that is keeping me afloat during these strange times is the future soon to come for me, these past few mouths have been tough for me there is many things but the one on my mind currently is the fact that everyone is on my back about me getting a job when I’m only young! (believe me I do want a job but at this stage it is causing me more stress than anything).

And why don't I have a job you may ask, well with covid-19 in all its glory messing up many things for so many people, I myself feel selfish if I was to take a job when there could be someone in better need of it than me. They may have mouths to feed and bills to pay and I feel more deserving of a job considering I have a roof over my head and food in my belly that has all been provided for me by my beautiful mother. But it does not help me when I have people (at school) giving me the stink eye because they have a job and I don't. I mean I have had a job previously in retail but I had left due to the toxic environment, and how upset and mentally drained I had been from working there.

Also currently I have a strong urge/want to just pick up all my stuff and just move away, to some beautiful place and have a fresh start. So many people are now showing there true colours to me and lets just say its not all unicorns and rainbows. I feel like there is so much more out there for me then here in this small town I just don't know what. well that's all Ill write today XO.

(p.s this is basically a public journal for my future self.)
Entry #4
Tags: Life, Lifestyle, Teen

Entry #4

12/23/20

3:49 pm

Welp I have a covid scare. Was out with some friends, dad calls a friend and says he has covid, dad and son have contact, yada-yada-yada. So there goes christmas. It’s alright, I’m not much of a family man anyway. I don’t imagine myself having one in the future, maybe a girlfriend, but not a wife. I like the solo life.

I am kinda going broke. It’s crazy how fast that happens. One week you have hundreds of dollars to spend, the next you can’t afford a DoorDash.

I hate how soft people have been getting these days. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t advocate for harassment or bullying (unless its on a younger sibling), but people have been crazy these days. I guess times are changing, but you really have to be careful with what you say.

I will be bored for the next weeks from covid and winter break, so I have chosen to skip all important things and to just be lazy and play Minecraft. It’s a simple life I live.

Feeling: Bored, Unmotivated, Calmed
How I Became A Teen Podcaster 5 Days Before The World Shut Down
By: Just Isabel Things Podcast
Tags: Coronavirus, Covid 19, Social Media, Podcast, Teens

On March 8th 2020, I sat on my bedroom floor and started a podcast. Did I know what I was doing? Nope. Did I know the world was going to shut down 5 days later? Nope. This is where my story gets interesting…

On that chilly Sunday night, I downloaded a random podcast app, entitled my podcast “Just Isabel Things”, and recorded a very cringey 2 minute intro episode. I went to bed and woke up Monday morning to 18 downloads (probably all of the downloads were from my friends). I was happy, but I started to get nervous from rumors and things starting to cancel one by one. However, I carried on with my week and woke up on Wednesday morning to 48 downloads. I started to get excited with my new adventure, however my focus shifted to the likely possibility of e-learning for a few weeks. Little did I know, it would be for the rest of the school year. Unfortunately, the rumors became true and on Friday the 13th, my school (and the world) shut down, and I not only had to get used to having a podcast, but also full time e-learning as a 2nd semester junior in high school. This was going to be interesting, but I was ready for it. As quarantine went on, my podcast started to grow, and it grew fast. By the middle of April, I had my first affiliate sponsorship with Audible, started a podcast instagram account (@just.isabel.things.podcast), and already made a ton of connections in podcast community.

As of December 21st, 2020, I have about 2300 podcast downloads and 2500 followers on Instagram! My podcast has even spread to 33 countries and 30 states! Although the big name podcasts probably get those stats in a few hour’s time, I am very grateful and in awe of how far I have come, especially as a solo teen podcaster in a global pandemic. I have been able to work with great companies, meet people (virtually) from around the world, and I just finished off my first merch drop! I have so many things I want to achieve with my podcast into 2021 and beyond. Hopefully I can bring you along with it!

If you would like to listen to an episode of my podcast, I am available everywhere podcasts are avaliable.

Instagram: @just.isabel.things.podcast

Podcast: https://linktr.ee/Justisabelthingspodcast

Sponsorship/Business Inquiries- Email: justisabelthingspodcast@gmail.com
Not everyone is ready to come out to their family.
Tags: LGBTQ, Self Acceptance, Teens

Not everyone is ready to come out to their family. Especially when you have a homophobic family. It’s pretty scary , in my opinion it’s braver than joining the military, but people still do it. People still come clean to their families and friends with hopes of being accepted.

But what do the families do? Some accept their kids, some learn to live with the terms but others aren’t as friendly as the above families.

My case it’s the third one. I am introvert and in this world their is nothing that I value more than my family. It’s actually the only thing I have if you don’t count the one friend I have. I like being anonymous not known to the world and staying inside. It’s hard to get me to open but I try at times.

I am bisexual and my family doesn’t know and neither do other people. Why? I live in a society full of homophobic people and it’s actually difficult to come out. Every thought of coming out eats me up inside , but I can’t come out I don’t have 'the balls' as people say it.

I tried sending them hints but the responses i got left me heart broken. You can tell from their tone they hate anyone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community and they would go to the extreme to have them as far away as possible from themselves.

Sometimes I sit back and question why am like this. It’s not an option is it? It made me cry multiple times because I was convinced I am not normal .

I am just not straight and I don’t see how that makes me any different from the rest of the world. One day when I grow the balls I might tell them in hopes of not to being kicked out ,since they also told me to be true to myself so I will.
Entry #3
Tags: Life, Lifestyle, Teen

Entry #3

12/21/20

4:21 pm

I’m gonna keep this one fairly short. Sometimes I wonder about the butterfly effect. If I managed life better in the beginning of quarantine, how different would my life be? Would I still be with my ex girlfriend? Would I have drank or smoke for the first times? Would I still be a virgin? Would I have remained in peak physical form? Would I actually be happy? These are all questions I have for myself in another dimension, one where I live a different life, as a different person. I think I went through one of the biggest personal changes out of anyone. I don’t think people realize how much I would like to go back.

Feeling: Concerned, Unmotivated, Scared
The reality of a COVID winter from the perspective of an anxious, American, 15 year old
By: Ella L-P
Tags: Stay Home Stay Safe, Gen Z, Coivd 19, Masks, Teens

We all recognize that the ongoing pandemic has taken its toll on each and every one of us. From the depressed college student attending classes through their laptop or the parent of 5 trying to figure out home school to the grandma who hasn’t seen her family since march or the musician missing the stage.

The world as a whole has been through many different events throughout the pandemic, the U.S. seeming to be hit the hardest due to a leader who chose to ignore the virus.

At the center of it all is Gen Z, clawing their way through online school grasping for any sign of life as we look at our future unsure of what’s to come next.

Some of us are missing our friends, some are dealing with rough home lives, and yes even some seem unaffected by the pandemic.

We were born into a world where our planet is intoxicated with global warming and ignorant adults who were taught that children should be seen and not heard. We were raised in a generation where we could feel our stable future slipping through the cracks of our fingers as the years went on.

Then we were thrown into a pandemic unable to do anything to control it except build our own platforms to speak out against the government, against administration, and against the blatant stupidity of our fellow Americans.

Nine months go by filled with civil uprisings, illness, and unrest as we march in the streets chanting Black Lives Matter, screaming bloody murder at opposing political supporters, watch the orange man fall, and now it’s the holiday season-an abnormal one at that.

As we finally get a break from listening to teachers drone on through a computer screen or endless coworkers and clients, we find ourselves stuck in our houses unable to travel or see family.

A new wave of loneliness and dread will most likely hit, but I urge you to find the little pockets of peace as we continue into the new year.

Happy holidays and stay safe, everyone.
dude i’m in love
Tags: Relationships, Teens, Boyfriend

dude i’m in love

Yeah it’s crazy, he makes me feel ✨that✨ way, and i really thought we could just be friends lol.

Today HE texted me so randomly to hang out, and i replied right after and said yes. We hung out for like 7 hours not even kidding.

We played cards TOGETHER i mean just him and i and i TOUCHED HIS HANDS BFBBAHAGAHKD. HE ISNT HOT but anyways.

HE GRABBED MY HANDS LIKE WTF BUT YESS I LOVED IT. One of my friends literally said dude just kiss already wtf and my heart rate legit went 📈📈.

I know for a fact he felt that way too, idk how or why i just know. AND I LOVE HIM idk what’s going on or anything but i’m in love. LOL
What I Wish I Could Tell My Teachers
By: S. Delisi
Tags: Schools, Teens

Hi Mr-

Hello Mrs-

To who it may concern

Hi it’s me again

Listen I know we’ve had this assignment for a month now. I understand that I’ve opened it many times before today 11:59pm. I understand everyone else has submitted it. I know I haven’t been in class. I’m sorry I couldn’t read the chapters. I’m sorry I slept through class. Whoops that’s another late assignment that will make me fail this semester. I’m sorry I chose my mental health over this class. I’m sorry my counselor wouldn’t let me drop it. I know this is a honors class. I know this is what I signed up for but I’m still a kid. I’m a kid who shouldn’t have been told their whole life they’re smart. They only ever told me that. I never had to work to finish anything because it came easy. I hate reading. I hate writing. I hate being at home. I hate myself. But I still do the work. I’ve put myself aside for everything else but not this time. This time I chose to stop.

I know we were told to not wait till last minute. Trust me I tried. “Try harder”. What do you think I’ve been doing. I but my whole heart into something just to get a C. “A grade doesn’t define you”. Well I’ve been taught that’s my worth since kindergarten. If I got A’s then I got playground time. If I had straight A’s I got to have fun. If I didn’t then I got “try harder”. I’m trying. I am. The battles I have getting out of bed are proof enough of that. I used to be happy. I used to respond to peoples messages. I used to like school. I used to do my work days before it’s due but I can’t anymore. Times changed. I changed. “You signed up for this”. I know. I know trust me. That’s all they tell me. I wanted to drop it but they wouldn’t let me. In order to follow my dreams they told be I couldn’t risk it. What’s the point if I feel like I’m being tortured while I’m in your class? It’s not you, it’s me. Here I am complaining while you watch the clock tick down on the due date. I won’t turn it in on time. I can’t. I want to sleep. I can’t. I want to breathe. I can’t. I want to be excited for the holidays. I can’t.

Wake up. Log on. School. Sleep. Wake up. Homework. Maybe. Sleep.

Maybe I want to have fun.

I’m drained. But I still have to go to school. I can’t risk not going. Then all I get is endless emails. I just want to sleep.

So I’m sorry I didn’t turn in it on time. I’m sorry I failed that test. I’m sorry I was never enough for your class. I’m sorry I have mental problems. I’m sorry I didn’t get it done. I’m sorry I don’t feel comfortable talking about it. I’m sorry I’m tried. I’m sorry I’m not enough. I’m try my best.

I started it. I couldn’t finish. I’m sorry.

To who it concerns,

I’m sorry but I just can’t anymore. I want to sleep.
What a 21 year old girl thinks about
By: Nicole Leigh
Tags: Careers, Life, Girls, Teens, 21

Hey I’m Nicole and this is my first time writing on Medium. I want to keep this chill and almost more like a text conversation with myself than a formal article so excuse my bad punctuation and language bc I know that there will be both.

Today is December 21 2020 a few days before Christmas and we are in a global pandemic, kinda crazy kinda super annoying to even talk about at this point bc we all know everythingggg there is to know about it anyways right??

No disregard to the severity of the situation but I just feel irritated every time someone repeats the same news about “Covid” “Corona” or anything to do with the situation at this point so I try to just tune it out

Im currently sitting in bed watching Netflix and just contemplating what the hell it is that Im gonna do as a career

its something Ive always put a ton of thought into but not always had the motivation to act on and do something about

I think maybe its bc in the back of my head even though i wont say it out loud most times I feel like i know i will end up having a good career and a good amount of money that im not overly worried but does everyone feel this way???

Like am i going to wake up in 30 years and be like oh shit your plan of just figuring it out never rlly worked out

or will i be in this big house that i picture with lots of money and success, honestly who tf knows

Im gonna start writing “articles” on here and see where it gets me and honestly if nothing comes of it but its a cool place to look back in 5 years and read all of my thoughts than i think im cool with that :)) So to anyone that may have taken the time to read this i hope you’re happy and if your not you’ll figure it out.
POV of a 15 year old
By: Emma James Ram
Tags: Teens

Lonely

I feel so lonely but why. I am always surrounded with good people, who make me laugh but what does it actually mean to be lonely. Is it the sensation of being with no one or the sensation of not telling anyone how you feeling, your real thoughts what’s actually going on with you. Maybe that’s what being lonely is like. Not being able to share your true self and being isolated in someone you are supposed to be.

Bomb

Everyday my bones feel worse, its like my body is dying. But I can cure myself, I can actually save me but, I can’t. Why? I don’t have the answer yet. It’s simply human’s nature of self destruction. Always a time bomb waiting to explode.

Pain

Realising that it can’tgo the same way it went once, is the most hurtful thing of all, ’cause after all you still have hope. That hope is what keeps us alive. Hope in getting better. But the problem is, when you loose it, you have nothing left. Then again, what is nothing? Is it having everything but feel empty or the feeling of emptiness when you actually don’t have anything. Guess I never lost hope. I still have some there left, and it doest mean that I will never have the relationship that I’m wishing for, but I’m going to have a better one. I promise. I just hope she can forgive me, and also forgive herself. I am so scared, for a tiny instance she was my best friend, now is hard to think of her being a friend at all.

Boy Issues

I have a lot of doubts. Didi he feel the same things I did, and I f he did, why is he not talking to me anymore. I know that night was special to him, it was really special to me too. But we are back at the same kind of shit. Doing what we hate the most instead of what we love due to fear. Fear of rejection I guess. But doesn’t he get it? I would never reject him. Guess is time to move on. Said this words a thousand times this past 2 years but guess what. Still here.
Fifteen Year Old 2021 Plans
Tags: Growing Up, Teens, Follow Me, Independence

Start a savings account

— I am 15 and will be moving out in 3 years so I would like to save enough money to have the essentials you need when living on your own. That could be a house, a car, or just home furniture. I plan to do this very soon.

Get my permit

— Like I said I am 15 and will get my permit soon so I can start driving. When your a teen kind of all you think about is driving. So you can go on road trips with your friends, or just all together freedom. I would like 2021 to be better than 2020 and if I could drive that is a very good start. Even if I have to drive with an adult for a couple months it worth it.

Pass freshman year

— Graduation is a big part of being successful, or so I believe. Not gonna lie this semester was very hard and kind of a mess to get through. Especially since it’s all online. If I pass freshman year I won't have to get held back or anything like that. Then I am a year closer to graduating.

Get a job

— In order to build my savings account I need to make money. A good first time job could be at a grocery store, a movie theater, thrift store, etc. My job also has to be part time because of school. unless it's in the summer. I have a applied to a couple places and have not been accepted yet, but I will keep trying till i get it.

Responsibility is a huge part of becoming an adult. You need to start with these thing’s to have a successful adulthood. These are my 2021 plans, if you are fifteen these should be yours too. make sure to follow me for more like this.
Thought dump on today.
Tags: Mental Health, Teenagers, Diary, Teens

Currently it’s around 8 in the evening and I’ve got to say, today has been better than I thought it’d be.

Started off by missing almost the whole morning by waking up at 11:30.

Now I know, bear with me alright.

I lulled around in bed for probably longer than I should’ve.

I didn’t eat as much as I should’ve.

That’s down to my cramps destroying my appetite, a difficult task for me might I add.

However, yes there’s a however in this mess.

I finally did some school work which is most likely miles past it’s due date, but I’m proud for getting back into it.

I then later had a bath which turned out to be pink because of the bubble bath I’d picked, but I can’t really complain at that, can I?

Top tier relaxation is watching YouTube videos in the bath with a face mask that limits any movement in your face.

For some reason the bath has put me in a really positive mood. Everything seemed to just go right, my ipad was fully charged so I wouldn’t have to worry about the battery running out half way through; I could use the nice face products I’d recently got; I used grapefruit body wash, for goodness sake the bath was PINK. How’s that not going to put me in a good mood?

Later on my sister offered to make pancakes, I couldn’t resist.

And now I’m back in bed, planning on painting for a little while and hopefully I’ll be able to go to bed earlier.

I feel as though I’m at a turning point and I’m happy to see myself happy.

I think this is a nice lead into the new year, whatever that will hold for me and the rest of us.

Even though I didn’t do much today, I was content throughout the whole day and I’m not disappointed on how little I’ve done.

Because I’m doing this one step at a time.
Why I deleted TikTok…as a Teenager
Tags: Tik Tok, Life, Social Media, Phone, Teens

TikTok.

A social phenomanom. A story-telling, laugh-inducing, relatable social network, where you can find any sort of video topic on.

As a teenager in the digital age, this should be a gift. I mean, when my parents wanted to find people with similar interests, they had to join a club at school. I can click on an app.

I hate it.

I hate feeling like I’m wasting my life away, watching videos…of other people. When I thought about it, it made sense. My grades had never been worse, I was spending less and less time with friends,(I mean facetiming and texting of course, thanks corona), I was just so unmotivated. Because I was spending HOURS flicking through an app!

It was honestly terrifying. All I could think of was: when you die, and you get that whole life-flashback thing, you’re just gonna see yourself looking at a screen. That really depressed me. Shouldn’t my high school memories be having fun with friends, winning sports games, and thriving in my best subjects? At the rate I was going, I would spend more time on my phone then doing homework. And I was STRESSED about doing the homework!

Listen, if you’re a teenager too, or even an adult who feels like this is a callout, it is. But I’m not trying to say you’re lazy, or stupid, or you don’t care about your life, because I know firsthand how untrue that is. But what I am saying is maybe delete tiktok for a day. Do your homework. If you can’t do that, take a half hour that you would have used scrolling through TikTok, and do that English project. Your future self will thank me.

I want to have a say in the kind of life I’ll have. And when I had TikTok, I felt completely out of control.
Disney Princess Problems
By: Maya Whitley
Tags: Life, Depression, Teens

i wish i had disney princess problems. i want my biggest worries to be finding the love of my life or out-smarting the villain. i want my efforts to solve problems to be awarded. i want my issues to be solved with adventures and magic. but thats never gonna happen. my problems are far too real and far too difficult to fix with a few sings and wishes. ive run out of pixie dust and my fairy godmother blocked my number. i would love to say that there’s an upside or some way to get out of the hole i have been assigned in life, but there isn’t. at least not one for me just yet.

where do i start. im 16 and i already feel like there is nothing left for me to do. sure i could have kids but i would feel so guilty bringing a kid into this world just to stress the same way i do. climate change and human trafficking and the middle east and muslims in china. its exhausting to worry about so much and have no control over any of it. at the rate the world is going it seems like we are all destined for more of a nightmare than we are already in.

my little brother has down syndrome. he doesnt understand most things but man he is sad. i can see it in his eyes and expressions and movement. i recognize it. i cant do anything to help him. i cant summon friends for him mostly because i dont know how to make myself any.

my parents are separated and in the middle of a messy divorce that makes me play the middle man. they do their best to not put me in the middle but i am the oldest child and my brother does not need to know what is happening.

i dont have many friends. i used to a really did then something happened. i want to blame it on myself because that would make it easy to fix but i cant. the reality of it is that i tried to change myself so much for the people around me that i ended up not knowing how to be happy with me. all that fixing and tailoring for people who dont realty care if i live or die. of course if i did die i guess they would start to care but more for the social aspect than actually sympathizing.

its lonely man. i dont have a sibling to rely on nor do i have friends. my family is lovely but has their own thing to worry about. i mean at least the side of my family that acknowledges my existence. not to sound too poetic but the things that keep my company are my own little goblins that remind me of everything im doing wrong. i eat too much and im too messy and i am boring and i should just not be here.

its horrible but it fixes your problems right? i guess it more just pushes your problems on other people. i used to tell myself how selfish it would be to do it to guilt trip myself out of the thoughts.

maybe its a sob stroy for different ears and maybe its not a sob story at all but its mine and its far from over
I’m trying.
Tags: Tik Tok, Gen Z, Mental Health, Teens, Parenting

I am, I really am.

I don’t know if I’m trying hard enough.

I don’t know if other people see that I’m trying.

But I am.

Recently there’s been a huge pressure put on the younger generation.

Yes I’m talking about Gen Zs, stop rolling your eyes.

Parents complain about their kids in every sense now and what’s really kicked in is that, some people just don’t get it.

Now I know, the moody teen motif of nobody understands us, but don’t click away just yet.

We stay in our rooms most of the day and it puts you into thoughts of doubt surrounding us and, trust me, the way to get us motivated is not through scolding us for what we lack in achievements and activity.

Being away from societal interaction during this time has left us alone with our thoughts. Our mental health deteriorates as more assignments are piled on our laptops and screens, as more parents bark at us and tell us that we should do something with all the free time we have, as we sit alone with the voices of self doubt that echo in our heads.

You might think that we watch our school grades drop with no care in the world, and maybe some of us do. But it’s the huge majority that’ve sat in our rooms and cried, yelled, screamed and even begged at the jumbled up thoughts that have torn us down so much. At the end of the day, we’re still children, we’re still kids; and we get overwhelmed and we get exhausted and most of the time we don’t tell the parents.

Because we’re trying.

Trying to get out of this loop by ourselves.

Trying to look like we’re trying.

Trying to better ourselves for the relief of you.

Trying to better ourselves for the satisfaction of you.

So when you see us and think that we mope around in our rooms all day for no good reason, open your eyes a little to the Gen Zs that are slowly but surely getting there, even if it’s one little step at a time.

Because we’re trying.
Basic Bitch will come for your kneecaps.
Tags: Women, Girls, Teens, Basic, Feminist

I hate the word basic. I hate how it is used for women, mostly teenage girls. And I hate how it is so condescending.

Because liking something, someone, when a lot of other people like it or them to, is bad? Wearing clothes that other people wear too? Bad. Basic. Be your own person, don’t follow trends. Just because your friends like that band, or wear those clothes, doesn’t mean you should like them or wear it. Okay, fair point, there’s nothing wrong with being different, and I know that that sounds cheesy, but why can’t I be my own person and still do those things that are redeemed basic? Why can’t it just be popular?

Also, you should stop shitting on things just because “only teenage girls like it”. There is no need and will only make the teenage girls want to break your kneecaps.
hi. so. i’m not all that sure how this app works just yet, but i’m going to be doing a series on…
By: Naima Mcgroarty
Tags: Mental Health, Teens, Sexuality

hi. so. i’m not all that sure how this app works just yet, but i’m going to be doing a series on here about the inside of a teenage mind, being a teenager myself, because i think adults think they understand us because “they were teenagers too” and of course they were, but our generations are so so different, kids now are so different. when it comes to sexuality, gender, mental health, things now are so different and these things are so much more spoken about, so teens know what’s wrong with them and they can figure things out, so i’m kind of just here to tell you, how we figure these things out, how we cope, how to help us, etc etc. so yeah follow me for more i guess. :)
Day 1:
Tags: Life, Teens

Day 1:

Hey day 1 of how my life has been I’m just some 14 year old almost 15 , in 4 days I’m not really excited about it I don’t get what’s the hype about birthdays .You were born and we get that ,congratulations for living you should be grateful but I don’t get why you celebrate it. I mean it’s fun getting gifts but I just don’t want no one wasting money on me I just want a cake and blow the candles with my family that would be the simplest greatest birthday ever . By the way this is all directed to teens so all you mums and dads you are welcome to read you might even understand what’s going on In your child’s head.I mean it’s not the same with everyone there’s always those kids where they want a new car for there birthday or some expensive gift like what you have hands, you have a brain go work and get a damn car yourself just because it’s your birthday doesn’t mean you need to go tell your parents I want this or that get a gift for yourself self-appreciation is key.Some teens don’t realise how much parents go through like they wiped your shitty ass for like 5 years they put a roof over your head do you know how much you cost you lot are all expensive all the diapers and milk formulas all that food you consumed all those clothes and shoes you have .That’s A LOT of MONEY so you should respect your parents even when there giving you a hard time I understand how the kids feels and the parents it’s a lot for both.
Entry #2
Tags: Life, Teens, Lifestyle

Entry #2

12/19/20

10:31 am

Last night was interesting. I think that was one of the highest I have ever gotten. In fairness I was with a bunch of friends and it was the first day of winter break, but I probably shouldn’t have done that much. Live and learn I guess.

A major problem I have is eating. I’m a recovering ED victim and my mentality of food isn’t healthy, but weed helps in a honesty. No more starving myself for validation, so thats nice.

I feel like this has been all about weed lets change it up.

The girl I’ve been talking too, she’s been a little distant recently. A little worrisome but I don’t wanna be too clingy so I’m ignoring it. I think everything’s ok, or I hope so at least.

Christmas is in 6 days. I don’t like Christmas. Don’t get me wrong, the weather is great and the warm nature of the season is wonderful, but its just overrated. The decorations and the music are just… no bueno. My 4th period class dubbed me “real life scrooge” so…

I passed all of my classes! I was near to not graduating but I got my Foods grade up from a 37% to a 73% in 2 weeks. I’m a teachers pet don’t worry about it.

Feeling: Neutral, Chilled, Calmed
Little Girl
Tags: Poem, Sad, Teens, Poetry

Little Girl

The little girl you had,

the one you birthed

and brought into this world.

She knew you never wanted her,

she wasn’t that oblivious,

but it wasn’t her fault

you chose to keep her.

I never felt close to my parents growing up. I was the youngest of three and my parents were teen parents. They had a lot going on. We always moved around when I was little and they were always working. It was hard to feel loved when you can sense the stress between them. As time went on, they eventually divorced. It was just as hard to feel loved when they were ultra focused on their different relationships after that. It was like I was forgotten.
Boy Drama: do i like him or is he just my friend?
Tags: Teens, Relationships, Boys

Boy Drama: do i like him or is he just my friend?

Hey I’m Isabella and i’m 14, so basically there’s this boy i met like a month ago. his body:😍 but his face:🤮, he’s fun to be around and we have A LOT in common, we were literally born 10 days apart. He has a “dark” past i swear y’all i do too. His friends find him annoying and my friends do too (joking ofc).

Everybody thinks he’s gay lol his voice is literally in high pitch and he yells all the time.

Anyways, today we were hanging out in my friend’s house and i was with him literally the whole night, but two of my other friends were there too, and i’m sus that he thinks one of them is cute, i’m sure he doesn’t like her, but i’m sus he thinks she’s cute. We laughed and i know for a fact he had a good time with me, and I KINDA SORTA LOWKEY tried flirting with him although i don’t like him (i think lmao).

When he was making random videos with the instagram story filters with my friend i was like wtf no, come with me (i didn’t fucking say it). But like that was for a short period of time and i was right next to him. We made tiktoks, he knows EVERY tiktok dance, but he doesn’t like being filmed while dancing, but i convinced him and we made a few together.

I don’t know if i like him and i’m pretty sure he doesn’t like me either, but i’d rather be friends than anything else (i guess) because i’m young, I hope he likes me tho lol, BUT if he likes me i would date him in that case or i would kiss him if he wants to.
Young Love
By: Angel Anto
Tags: Hopeless Romantic, Teens, Crush, Love, Young Love

There’s this boy I like and I thought he liked me to but when I ever tried to text him outside of the actual class he would ignore me. I feel like he thought he was better than me (he was one of the popular ones) and of course I wouldn’t want to date someone like that. But like every other hopeless romantic teenager who has their whole idea of romance and relationship experience from anime’s I was maybe looking for too much. I guess this problem can be seen to be quite trivial and pointless to most but in my small world this is a big deal. It would help if he was unattractive but he’s not but I can’t say much for his personality. Even though he’s nice to me, whenever I see him around school sometimes he’s just being mean to the younger kids. I really am in a mindset with this boy where I think “I can change him and make him a better person”. It’s quite sad I suppose. I think I’ll stick to my fictional book and anime boys :)
How I’m feeling about the end of 2020…
By: Emily Poxson
Tags: Lockdown Diary, Covid-19, Teens, Home, A Level

How I’m feeling about the end of 2020…

As the end of this monstrous year comes closer and closer I feel completely thrown out by the mix of emotions running through me. I thought I was excited for this year to end, I sure as hell should be, but I can’t help this anxious uncertainty from bubbling over as the year 2021 edges nearer.

I used to get excited for the new year; goals, plans for adventure and a new beginning. But after the traumatic rollercoaster that has been this year, I feel as though I am going to be sick. I think a lot of people found this year beneficial, finding who they are for themselves with the solitary of lockdowns past or climbing new heights with athletic goals or hobbies… not me. I sat and panicked internally and tried to eat myself to death among other poor decisions like cutting myself a mullet or bleaching my hair. I can’t say I’m proud of the outcome but I am proud I can acknowledge my mistakes and never EVER do them again. My mums boyfriend moved in over lockdown, he is now a personal trainer and fitness coach, He and my mother went to many lengths to try and encourage some form of activity: and yes, I complied, willingly too, but I have fallen out of it and jumped back in several times now and I wonder when they will stop trying to flog this very much dead horse.

I did however get some things done this year, I have successfully gotten through the first 3 months of my a levels of which I began studying philosophy, English language and politics. These subjects were all too complicated for my overestimated brain capacity so I opted to continue with philosophy as-well as textiles and business. I have always enjoyed the idea of becoming the next Coco Chanel or Christian Dior. Don’t worry, I understand that these dreams are completely unrealistic but I might as well give it a punt. So yes, I’ve not failed anything, scraping by with E’s and D’s isn’t what I expected my first term would look like but it’s not a fail, and that’s enough for me.

Anyway, back to the point.

I’ve come to realise that I would rather wallow in the mess that is the end of 2020 than head into what could be another 365 days of chaos and torment, but hey, there’s always day drinking and the occasional good Netflix binge to keep me afloat so let’s dive in to 2021!
Lets take a step forward
By: Ss
Tags: Mental Illness, Mental Health, Lets Talk, Teens, Emotions

If I’m being honest, I’m not one for putting my past and feelings out into the open- a lot of people struggle to share their emotions and what they're going through- me being one of them. Ever since I was little, I’ve always enjoyed the art of writing… stringing together letters and words to make something that make you FEEL. Nowadays, mental health is now becoming a more popular and more “well-known” topic of conversation. To me, its great… speaking about our feelings and letting others know they're not alone is a beautiful thing. Now I know there are tons of mental health blurbs all over the internet and new books published all the time about how to live with a mental illness. Naturally, it’s never as easy as they make it seem. It makes me think, you know… if these big-shot authors are getting all the readers, why should I even try? Who wants to read about a 16 year old girl whos lived and breathed mental illness and what she has to say about it. Frankly, I don't know, but if it can help someone and make them feel less alone in the lives or mind, then I feel like my time and talent is well spent. Ill continue to write on here for anyone who may need a reminder that, its not going to be easy- but you can pull through.
What is Booktok?
By: Charlize Andrews
Tags: Tik Tok, Arts Creators, Readers, Teens, Community

New TikTok Community:

December 17, 2020

Photo creator: Ryan MacEachern/Penguin

What Exactly is This New Community?

Booktok is a new way for teen readers to meet and connect with each other, but there is so much more to it than just that! This new community has brought so many non-readers into reading. I have heard so many BookTokers talk about how they used to never read, thinking it was boring, unrealistic, etc. Now they read several books every month, and have devoted themselves to spreading the word about the books that pushed them into reading. So many people that used to read realistic (non-fiction) books and nothing else are now reading dystopian and fantasy because of all these book recommendations. This community has also brought attention to what books people consider to have a lack of diversity, bringing in more recommendations to people that contain more diverse characters and plots.

The most talked-about author on BookTok is Sarah J. Maas, author of the bestselling series Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses. Her books mostly focus on the fantasy worlds with a newfound focus that we have never seen before in novels — Fae. She writes about Faeries but within these books, she not only has magic but also war and steamy romance. These books are rarely ever disliked, and those who dislike them usually only chose to because of the supposed lack of diverse characters. To better understand this community, and also for my own personal enjoyment, I joined BookTok. I made an account called @charlizes.bookshelf and began experiencing what the excitement was all about. Within a week I had already gained 80 followers and communicated with many kind BookTokers such as @pickleyrickley @anya.reads @poppy.gracelf and @miche_123a. Everyone in this close community is so kind and understanding of each other. We all have our own opinions, but there is no hate within this amazing relationship between teens and books. Photo by: Joaleene White

How do I Join BookTok?

I actually found this very easy to do! Many BookTokers will reply to any questions you ask in their comment section, which can help you better understand, but all you really need to do is create an account specifically and solely focused on books. Search up the hashtag #Booktok and you will find many popular creators to start following. The next step is to get yourself involved in the video-making. Find some books you love and some audios that will help you. You can use popular trends and turn them into book trends, and even brainstorm ideas from other creators. Make some great videos and challenges and spread the word that you have joined the community! This wonderful system is full of kindness and has truly helped so many teenagers make online friends as well as new discoveries. I urge you to give it a try and figure out what you like! BookTok does not disappoint!
Teen drama
Tags: Teenagers, Drama, Social Media, Teens, Teen Drama

So it all started about a month ago. I was in the bathroom and just came out. When I went out of the bathroom one of my girl bestfriend at the time just came out of the bathroom to but the girls bathroom of course. Well anyways these bathrooms was located inside a crease in the wall. So we walked out the same time just to see a boy stare at us weirdly and saw the bathroom behind us. Then he just walked off like nothing happened. Later that day the same guy came up to me and said hey did she give you a blow job in the bathroom and I said no and walked away. It was about a week after that when the rumors began. When we walked in school and sat next to each other we noticed people staring at us in a bad way. People started coming up to me saying did it fell good. I was confused what was going on until and friend came up to me and said is it true. I said is what true. He said you know did she really give you a blow job in the bathroom. My jaw dropped I told him no and explained everything. He understood and tried to help me with solving the rumors. It was about a week later and the rumors just got worst. That day I heard something that made me want to hurl up in a ball in die. My girl Best friend came up to me and said is it true. I said is what true. Then she told me that people are saying I was the one spreading the rumors. And that she no longer wants to be my friend. She started telling everyone that I was the one spreading rumors and started calling me names with her cousin. Skip forward to present day and things still are not better. Because now she told her parent’s that I was the one spreading the rumors and they are going to be at the play that I’m in. That’s probably because she is I’m the play too. But I am scared for my life for tomorrow. So what should I do?