Hygiene
It used to be that you could just hop in the shower and clean up a couple times a week and that was your whole hygiene routine.  Not so anymore.  Once you hit puberty, staying clean becomes a lot more complicated.  There are so many changes going on in your body that cause you to be greasy, dry or, let’s face it, even a bit smelly.  Luckily, attention to cleanliness will help combat the not-so-fun new problems like acne and body odor.  Old habits die hard but you are going to change up your routine now.  Shower more often, buy some deodorant and start washing your face…it may seem like a hassle but it’ll keep you looking and feeling your best.  Eventually you may want to grab a razor and start to shave as well.

Weight Gain
Weight gain during puberty is not just common- it’s almost guaranteed, so don’t freak out!  When people who haven’t seen you in awhile make remarks like “my you sure have filled out” don’t take it the wrong way.  “Filling out” is exactly what your body is doing and it’s not the same thing as “getting fat.”  Your body is taking on a new, more mature shape which you will have to get used to.  It’s normal for girls to gain some weight on their hips and chest, while guys tend to broaden in their chests and upper bodies.  It can actually be dangerous to start dieting to get rid of this new fat- it is part of your shape not excess.  If you are worried about your weight gain talk to your parents or your doctor to find out if it’s normal or something you should be worried about.

Stay Grounded
Your hormones are running wild, but that’s no excuse to lash out and go wild.  There may be times when your emotions run rampant but always try to remember that you are ultimately still responsible for your actions.  Sometimes, even after the worst fight, a simple “I’m so sorry, I don’t know what came over me. Lately I just have been feeling really upset” can heal all wounds and repair the damage done by a mood swing. Also, try to stay focused on who you are and what’s best for your body. It can be really hard not to become self-conscious and completely stressed out about the way you look, but try your best to resist.  Everyone goes through a time like this and just sit tight with the knowledge that you are growing into your body – it may seem awkward now but it will eventually turn into YOU. 

Ask Questions
It’s sometimes hard to imagine but your parents once had to go through puberty too.  It may be hazy in their memory right now, but the more you talk about how you are feeling or worries you have the more will come back to them.  Not only can you get some great answers, but it will remind them and help them to understand the confusing things you are coping with.  Deal with your frustrations by talking about them rather than holding them in.  Remember that nothing you are worried about is trivial.  If you don’t feel like asking your parents there are always others willing to listen- older siblings, aunts and uncles, teachers, guidance counselors- pick someone who you feel comfortable with and ask away.  Never let embarrassment stop you, they probably get asked these questions all the time! Every goes through a lot of the same things, rather than trying to solve it all on your own, why don’t you reach out for a little experienced help?