Not feeling like you belong in high school isn’t just uncomfortable—it can change how you see yourself.

It’s sitting alone at lunch, walking into a group conversation, and feeling invisible, or wondering if anyone would notice if you weren’t there. Over time, it makes you question if you even deserve to be included, and that doubt can hold you back from speaking up in class, making new friends, or getting involved in a school activity. When you don’t feel like you fit in, school can start to feel like something you just have to survive instead of a place where you can grow. But the truth is, everyone deserves to feel like they belong. You’re not meant to blend in or shrink yourself—you’re meant to take up space, find your people, and know that you matter.

If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. Real connection starts with small moments—a kind word, a shared laugh, a simple “hey, want to sit with us?” And if finding your people feels hard, reach out to a trusted teacher, counselor, or mentor. Sometimes, the right support can help you.

But What if a Teacher Doesn’t Feel Like a Trusted Adult?

Not every teacher is a trusted person. Some can be dismissive, judgmental, or make you feel unheard, and that’s not okay. A trusted teacher or adult should make you feel safe, respected, and supported, not judged or belittled.

Here are a few ways to tell if a teacher is someone you can trust:

Signs of a Trusted Teacher

✅ They listen without judgment – They don’t dismiss your feelings or make you feel like your struggles aren’t important.
✅ They respect your privacy – They don’t share personal things you tell them unless it’s about your safety.
✅ They make time for you – Even if they’re busy, they find a moment to check in when you need help.
✅ They encourage you, not tear you down – They build you up and help you find solutions instead of making you feel small.
✅ They follow through – If they say they’ll help, they do it.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

🚩 They dismiss your concerns – If they brush off what you’re going through or say things like “you’re overreacting,” they may not be a safe person to confide in.
🚩 They play favorites or embarrass students – A trusted teacher treats everyone with respect, not just a select few.
🚩 They make you feel ashamed – If they criticize you in a way that makes you feel small instead of helping you improve, they may not be someone to trust.
🚩 They talk about you to others – If they gossip about students, they might not keep your confidence either.

What to Do If a Teacher Isn’t Supportive

• Find another trusted adult—maybe a school counselor, another teacher, or even a coach or librarian.
• Talk to someone outside of school, like a parent, aunt or uncle, older sibling, or community mentor.
• If a teacher is truly making you feel bad or unsafe, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. You deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.

Belonging isn’t just about fitting in—it’s about finding the places where you are valued just as you are! It’s worth it to make sure YOU belong in all the spaces YOU take up space.