Dear Dana is an advice column especially for teens in the Monadnock Region.  The column gives teens a person to ask the questions they cannot ask others.  Dear Dana provides down-to-earth advice in order to help teens in the Monadnock Region.

Q:  I am 15 years old. I have a best friend who flaunts herself to the boys and they stare at her. I’m a Christian and I like to cover up my body. I get attention from boys, but not the same attention she gets and that’s what I want. I don’t know how to get a guy to know I like him without flaunting myself. Please help me.

A:  It is difficult being around a girl that likes to “flaunt” herself and get’s the boy’s attention that way. However, you should stay strong in what you believe in. If you do not want to “flaunt” yourself, then you shouldn’t. Do only what is comfortable. There are many ways of “flaunting” yourself that you might be comfortable with. Maybe do your hair differently, or find a new trendy “cool” outfit to wear that you feel comfortable in. If guys are not paying attention to you because you are not wearing “flaunting” clothing, then those are not the guys you should be talking to. A good guy will be interested in you, not your body only. I am sure you are beautiful and the appropriate guys will find that out without you showing off your body to them. Stick with your values!
 

Q:  Hello, I am 10 years old and I feel like I am fat. No one ever says I am fat. My Mom doesn’t think I am fat either. How should I tell her that I think I am fat so she can help me?

A:  Feeling unhappy about yourself is a hard thing to feel. I think the best option for you is to sit down with your Mom and be honest about the way you feel. Make sure to explain to her why you feel this way. I would also suggest going to talk with your Doctor about your weight with your Mom. He/She will be able to tell you if your weight is appropriate for your height. You can also discuss options with him/her for how you can feel better about yourself. 

These days society makes it easy for kids your age to feel like they are fat. I would encourage you to do whatever makes you feel the best and to just be healthy.
 

Q:  Hey, I am having a problem with my weight.  I weigh over 200lbs and I am 13 turning 14 in a little more than 3 months.  What can I do to get about 30 pounds lighter in 3 months?

A:  In society today, there are many youth that are struggling with what you are going through.  Society is telling kids to be thin, thin, thin.  Never once is society telling kids to be healthy!  Many youth your age are overweight.  So, DON’T feel like your alone! 

The best answer for you is to go see a Doctor or someone that knows your health history.  They would know best what would help you in regards to getting healthier.  Your height can make a big difference in how much you weigh.  I would also encourage you to eat healthier; fruit, veggies, lean protein such as chicken, and whole grains such as wheat bread.  Never starve yourself, because it will only make you more unhealthy that you are.  Always try to be active as often as you can.  Walk to school, join an intramural sports team at school, go to a local gym with a family member or friend, or maybe participate in a teenage support group for overweight youth (Your doctor could direct you to one).  Try to find active things to do with your friends on the weekends.  The most important thing is for you to find whatever makes you feel healthier, not just dropping the pounds.