Passing on some sound advice

Sir, – There have been many articles recently informing us of the serious distress felt by so many young people regarding their personal appearance.

I recall in the years during and following World War Two, the many privations we all had to come through.

We grew through our teenage years making the best of a bad job.

There was no time to fuss about fancy clothes or make-up .

We had to put up with handed-down clothes, not even always for the

same sex.

I also recall the occasional effort with wire pipe-cleaners to curl our hair which did not always create quite the desired soft curls.

You had to eat whatever your mum made and not complain.

Sweeties were severely rationed, well after the wartime.

Electronic games had not yet even been dreamed of so you made up your own pastimes such as carving boats out of firewood.

In the midst of all this, gradually growing up, I asked my big brother why I had as yet (at the age of 12) no boyfriend

His reply was not to think so much of myself but look out and be more aware of others.

I have found that advice works right through life.

The question is, how can such helpful advice be made known to these benighted youngsters of ours?

Dr Norma H Smith. 7 Adelaide Terrace, Dundee.