Adolescence - Hormonal Changes - Physical

Usually between the ages of 8 and 18 years old, your body starts growing and changing. These changes occur from head to toe, and are completely natural as your body responds to increased hormones. In females, the main hormone guiding the body's new instructions is called estrogen. In males, it's testosterone. All of these changes together are called puberty.

Both sexes will:

• Begin to gain weight
• Grow taller
• Grow more body hair
• Speak with a deeper/stronger voice 
• Maybe develop acne

Surviving puberty

Puberty can be one of the toughest parts of life. With the help and support of relatives and friends, you can sail through it, though. It helps to remember that you are not the only one going through this, that everyone goes through puberty. Here are some additional tips to help:

• Ask lots of questions. It is nice to know how and what your body is doing, how it will affect your life and how to keep it all in perspective.
• Respect your body. Smoking, using drugs and drinking alcohol are not respectful of your body, and in fact they are rather harmful. Eat nutritious foods. Get plenty of exercise. Wait for sex until you are ready!
• Accept your body. It is a work in progress. Remember that everyone goes through it, but that you are an INDIVIDUAL! Try not to compare yourself to anyone else.
• If you feel sad, bad or totally weird, talk to somebody! Believe it or not, you already know someone you can talk to about your personal feelings and the changes you are going through. Don't suffer in silence. Start practicing communication now!
• Give your parents a chance. They can really give you a lot of support and information if you let them in!