10–13 years
Early adolescence
Bodies, friendships and feelings all start changing at once. It is normal to feel confused or self-conscious. This page is for young people and for the adults who want to support them without taking over.
Written for: Young people, parents and teachers. All age pathways
What someone might experience
These are common, not certain. Many people go through some of them and are fine.
- Anxiety and low mood
- Worries about body image
- Distress related to puberty
- Bullying and cyberbullying
- Low self-esteem
- Early concerns related to eating
- Feeling left out by others
- Stress related to identity
- Early exposure to alcohol, tobacco or other substances
- Self-harm risk in some young people
- Effects of neglect, abuse or exposure to violence
Signs you might notice
A card to keep or share. These are signs to notice and talk about, not a diagnosis. Early adolescence, 10–13 years.
- Sadness or irritability that lasts
- Pulling away from friends and family
- Strong unhappiness with their body
- Changes in sleep or eating
- Avoiding school
- Marks of self-harm, or talk about self-harm
- Fear of particular peers or online spaces
If several of these are present, or they are getting worse, speak to a doctor, counsellor or one of the services below. If someone may be in danger, call 112.
What shapes this in India
Not everything is about the person. Their surroundings matter a great deal.
- Puberty brings new expectations at home and in the community
- Gender norms shape what girls and boys are allowed to do
- Stigma around menstruation and lack of menstrual supplies or facilities
- Discrimination based on caste, class or disability
- Comparison and harassment online
- Restrictions within the family
- Academic competition
- Risk of child marriage in some settings
What can help
- Age-appropriate learning about mental health
- Puberty and body-safety education
- Support from trusted adults and peers
- Anti-bullying and digital safety measures
- Confidential access to a counsellor
- Early assessment when difficulties continue
Important to know
Respect a young person's growing privacy and independence, while following child-protection and safety duties. If you are worried about their safety, ask directly and calmly. Asking about self-harm does not put the idea in someone's head.
SAATHI cannot diagnose. Faith, prayer and traditional healers are part of many families' lives, and can sit alongside care. If something is affecting daily life, please also see a doctor or counsellor.
If you're a parent, teacher or family member
- Share accurate information about periods and puberty before they happen, not after.
- Stay curious about their online life rather than banning it outright.
- Notice changes and mention them gently: 'You seem quieter lately. I'm here if you want to talk.'
- If they tell you something serious, thank them, stay calm and get the right help. Do not promise to keep it secret.
Who to ask near you
You do not have to work this out alone. These are real services in India. Availability varies by district, so a call or a visit is the best way to check.
- A school counsellor or a teacher you trust. Many schools have one person children can talk to.
- A Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) adolescent clinic, also called an Adolescent Friendly Health Clinic, at a health centre or district hospital.
- Your family doctor or the doctor at the PHC, CHC or district hospital.
- Childline 1098, free, for any child who is unsafe or any adult worried about a child. The District Child Protection Unit and Child Welfare Committee act on cases of abuse.
Helplines, free in India
- 112Emergency Response Support System Police, fire and ambulance. Call if someone is in immediate danger.
- 14416Tele-MANAS Free national mental health support, 24 hours, in many Indian languages. Also 1-800-891-4416.
- 181Women Helpline Support and referral for women facing violence, 24 hours.
- 1098Childline For children in need of care and protection, or adults worried about a child.
- 14567Elderline National helpline for senior citizens.