Dear Clementine

Withdrawn Teens, A Best Friend's Awful Boyfriend & Knowing When To Speak Up

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Episode notes

Today in Clementine's inbox: a father looking for advice on how to support his teen daughter, a friend trying to manage her bestie's awful boyfriend and learning when it's your responsibility to speak up and when it's best to stay quiet.

• I am the father of a 13-year-old girl and I'm currently facing a challenging situation that I could really use your advice and insights on. Lately, my daughter has been expressing a strong reluctance to go to school. She used to be enthusiastic about school and enjoyed learning, but recently she has been resistant to attend classes. The one and only time she opened up to me, she assured me that she was not a victim of bullying, but she did say, "Why am I so different?" Can you please share any advice or suggestions you might have on how to approach this situation?
• My best friend and I are housemates. Unfortunately, her ex boyfriend is just the worst, and she keeps going back to him. She often asks me what I think of their situation and I have spent HOURS unpacking their relationship with her. I am very direct but it just feels like no matter what I say, she doesn’t care! How do I deal with this? Why do amazing women date lame, boring, smelly men?? 
• How do you know when to speak up on issues you care about and when to stay silent? I've always struggled to accept people with opposing beliefs to my own but recently I've come to the realisation that all people hold firm beliefs that no amount of debate or contrary evidence can shift. 

If you have a question for Clementine, get in touch: [email protected] 

CREDITS 
Audio Production: Adrian Walton 
Managing Producer: Elle Beattie 
Executive Producer: Edwina Stott 

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