Not a fan of sleepovers? You’re not alone.
Sleepovers can be lots of fun but they can also throw up all sorts of problems. We take a look at some of the common fears and worries about sleepovers and offer advice…
I’m Scared Of The Dark
“I’ve been invited to a sleepover but I’m scared of the dark and I always sleep with a night light. I don’t want my friends to laugh at me for being a baby if I ask to keep a light on – what should I do?”
It’s not ‘babyish’ to be afraid of the dark, in fact, it’s a lot more common than you might think. It’s normal to feel embarrassed and worried about what other people might think –
you may even want to avoid sleeping over at a friend’s house in case they laugh at you. Supportive friends will understand if you want to keep a lamp on but if you’d rather keep your fears quiet, why not use your mobile phone as a nightlight? That way, you don’t have to miss out on the fun. For more help on dealing with a fear of the dark, click here.
I Don’t Like Other People’s Houses
“I struggle to get to sleep and I start wishing for my own bed and my own space. I feel like the only one who doesn’t like sleepovers! All my friends like them so why don’t I?!”
If you prefer your own surroundings, why not ask a friend to come and stay with you instead? That way, you don’t have to leave your safe place and you don’t have to worry about feeling ill or worried all night. Some people just don’t enjoy staying over at other people’s homes and that’s absolutely fine – it’s not for everyone. You can host a brilliant sleepover at your own house and you won’t miss out on any of the fun!
I’m Scared Of Sleepovers
“I don’t know why, but I feel really scared about sleeping over at my friend’s house. I keep thinking, ‘What if I need to go home in the middle of the night? What if I get sick or have an upset stomach? What if something bad happens?’”
Sleepover anxiety is common in teenagers. It can be a fear of the unknown – especially if you haven’t stayed at a particular house before. It can make you feel very nervous and worried about a whole bunch of ‘what ifs?’.
It can help to write down the things you’re worried about. You can do this with a parent and ask them to help you work out ways to deal with each dilemma to help put your mind at ease. When you’re at a sleepover and you start to feel anxious, you can try these coping techniques. Another good idea is to ask your parents to pick you up later in the evening, rather than sleepover. Once you’ve spent some time at your friend’s house and familiarised yourself with their home, you may feel more confident to spend the whole night the next time. It may take some time to feel completely comfortable with staying over, but your confidence will grow over time. You’ve got this!
