Barriers to Accessing Support Networks for Adolescents
1. One barrier to stop and adolescent from accessing a support network would be the fear that someone would find out and spread a rumour through their school, social groups or out of school contacts. This barrier may be overcome by realising that there is a problem which needs to be solved and that people can say what they want but you have to believe in yourself and believe that you're stronger than anything that society ca say about you.
2. Another barrier (for boys especially) might be that the adolescent may feel weak, accepting help from someone else to deal with their own problem. This barrier can be beaten by feeling strong and independent but being strong enough to know when you need help. Strength is not necessarily fighting your own battles, strength can also be having the courage to seek assistance in a time of need.
3. A third barrier to access support could be that the child may not have access to a phone, the internet, or a computer. They may be experiencing issues with body image in a more remote area which doesn't allow access to help and support. This barrier is more difficult for children to overcome but it is possible. You could talk to someone you trust and they can help you or you could ask someone you know and/or trust to give you a lift to somewhere where there is internet or a phone to use. You could also seek out a counselor.
2. Another barrier (for boys especially) might be that the adolescent may feel weak, accepting help from someone else to deal with their own problem. This barrier can be beaten by feeling strong and independent but being strong enough to know when you need help. Strength is not necessarily fighting your own battles, strength can also be having the courage to seek assistance in a time of need.
3. A third barrier to access support could be that the child may not have access to a phone, the internet, or a computer. They may be experiencing issues with body image in a more remote area which doesn't allow access to help and support. This barrier is more difficult for children to overcome but it is possible. You could talk to someone you trust and they can help you or you could ask someone you know and/or trust to give you a lift to somewhere where there is internet or a phone to use. You could also seek out a counselor.