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This article was first published in May 2021.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing. As we grow up, we learn from our mistakes, develop our personalities and discover who we are. If we were to write a letter of advice to our younger self, what would we tell them? What do we know now that we wish we knew then? What have we learned?

For this series of thought-provoking films, we asked eighteen young people to write a letter to their younger selves. This is Dear Younger Me.

Continue to shine as bright as ever because your past, future and present self said so.
Qezz walking near trees. She is wearing a black coat with white collar.

Qezz moved to England from Pakistan when she was younger. In this Dear Younger Me, Qezz reflects on her identity. She tells her younger self that she is impressed at her ability to adapt and transform. She tells herself that, by choosing the nickname Qezz, it doesn't mean she is rubbing away her identity – she is creating a new one. Her identity and heritage will mean a lot to her in later years and she will learn that her Asian and Western side can co-exist.

Qezz walking near trees. She is wearing a black coat with white collar.
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If you need support

You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.

If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact , where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are more links to helpful organisations on 鶹Լ Action Line.

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Dear Younger Me: Samya

If you wrote a letter to your younger self, what would it say? This is Samya's letter.

Dear Younger Me: Samya

Dear Younger Me: Chloe

If you wrote a letter to your younger self, what would it say? This is Chloe's letter.

Dear Younger Me: Chloe

Dear Younger Me: How letter-writing can help your mental health

Writing a letter to a younger version of you that went through a hard time can really help you - here's how.

Dear Younger Me: How letter-writing can help your mental health