Some conversations require talking to someone who really understands. Sometimes filling in the awkward silence can help with one’s comfort level. This is especially true for women. Not being comfortable means no communication between people. Women and girls engage in “girl talk” to help them get through the rough parts of girlhood or just regular life. Having to see girls go through things alone is hard, that’s why we need each other’s support.

“They (female peers and adults) potentially have an understanding of what girls go through,” said teacher Ms. Megee.

It is important for girls to find female friends that they can trust- ones who won’t laugh, judge, or roll their eyes when you’re having a serious conversation with them. “I wouldn’t confide in someone who has a reputation for acting like that,” said sophomore Kimora Burke.

“Some girls I can’t trust because they tend to gossip and talk about everything they hear,” said sophomore Kayla Jimenez.

Girls need to find the right friends to talk to, to help them get through their struggles. “Having the same humor or having a good spirit are both important qualities in a friend,” said sophomore Irie Smoot. Being able to find the right people who will understand you is important, and these similarities will make it a lot easier.

Reaching out to people who are like you can help with your own mental health. “It has impacted me because I wouldn’t know other people’s perspectives. I would always need somebody to talk to, If I never became close with any girls, I would probably be a lot more insecure and not as comfortable with people,” explained freshman Graidys Rivera. When you end up finding the person who makes you feel safe, they become an important person to you. “An important person to me is my Aunt because she was able to connect with me more since she knows all the ups and downs, and grew up faster than other people,” said senior Cindy Radfore.

It can also be important to find someone who is older and more experienced to talk to, including teachers at your school. Certain staff members tend to be strict, or sarcastic and that isn’t what a student needs. “A staff member needs to have an instinct when something is wrong. They can’t be judgmental, they need to be understanding, and welcoming,” said freshman Graidys Rivera.

Without those qualities, there shouldn’t be any point in keeping the conversation going. Teachers should also put effort in when speaking about difficulties that girls go through. “You’re listening to understand your student’s point of view,” said teacher Ms. Megee. Some have ended up trusting teachers or counselors because of how understanding they are. “I trust my counselor because she makes me comfortable, checks on my mental health, and makes sure I am comfortable with all my classes,” said junior Jaida Caban.

Your school experience depends on the people you surround yourself with. Surrounding yourself with supportive women is important for girls. Engaging in girl talk is beneficial for all women. It empowers you, and it will help you in the future with communication. Don’t be afraid to find the people who bring out the best in you.