The Catalyst

Question: My best friend has a boyfriend and she thinks that he’s more important than me… what should I do?

Answer: Mention to her the way you feel about the situation and remind her that you have been there for her longer than he has. Don’t make a huge deal out of it; just make sure you’re not the only one putting effort into the friendship. But don’t forget that high school is about relationships and learning how to balance them.

Q: My girlfriend’s pregnant …what do I do?

A: Let her know that you support any decision she decides to make. Let your parents know you have been sexually active and visit your local clinic. Make sure your girlfriend visits the doctor and informs her family as well, as soon as possible! Remind her that it’s her choice to do decide what to do, and you stand by her no matter what. If you give her support, you can overcome anything.

Q: I think my friend is an alcoholic and does drugs, what should I do?

A: Make sure that your friend is aware of his/her problem. Also, let him/her know how it is not only affecting him/her, but you as well. Some ways you can help are simple. Try not going out one weekend or a night, and just stay home with your close friends. Talk about times when you were younger and had no idea you would do this stuff, when you were innocent. If this doesn’t help, seek professional assistance right away. It is better to attack the problem in the beginning, rather than wait until it is too late.