It’s natural to want to feel like we belong. Sometimes when we feel different to other people, we may feel as though we don’t fit in.

This can make you feel anxious, confused or isolated.

People can feel different for many reasons, such as their skin colour, religion, being LGBTQ+, having a disability, looking after other people or just feeling like they don’t fit in.

It’s ok to be different and it’s ok to be you.

Being or feeling different to other people does not mean there is a problem with your mental health. However, any negative effects from feeling different can affect your emotional wellbeing.

Many people are worried that they feel different, especially as we are growing up.

If you speak to your friends and family, you may be surprised at how many of them have felt the same way as you at some point in their life – you may find it helpful to share your experiences with them or someone else you trust.

It can be tough to remember this if you are having a negative experience about feeling different, but the things that make you feel different are also the things that make you the person you are.