The Changing

A poem about a changing teenage girl and mental health.

A conceited teenager,

the centre of attention.

Mirror pouts. Instagram selfies.

The changes were gradual,

unnoticeable at first.

A nervous breakdown in class.

Concerned friends.

Her hurting heart,

soothed by inspirational quotes,

replacing Instagram selfies.

Hushed whispers behind textbooks.

Midnight prayers.

Teary letters to God.

Late nights, early mornings.

Years later,

You pass by her in the supermarket.

She’ll break into a smile,

but you wouldn't recognise her,

as the once conceited teenager.