Hi Manda, I'm 17 and in my last few months of high school and I just want to let you know that it's a super crazy ride and you just have to hold on until the end, because you will *get there*. There are going to be great memories but also low moments, but in the end you really learn a lot about yourself. I mean it.

I'm assuming you're not bulimic. You're thin but you can't gain weight easily. That's your body and there's nothing you or anyone else can do about it. If other people don't understand that, that's too bad. Don't feel like you have to counter their opinions by suddenly eating more, because there is nothing wrong. Kick *** at what you're good at and just focus on the things that make you happy.

If the new girl doesn't like you, don't take it too personally. She's still trying to adjust and maybe your chemistry just doesn't work out. Again, there's nothing you can do to change either of your personalities to become friends. Maybe help her out and show her around but don't feel obliged to befriend her. Just giving her a place to start is great, and shows that you care about others.

As for your own friends, maybe start off by seriously clarifying to them that you are *not* bulimic. Even if they know this, really lay it out for them word by word. Tell them how it's not funny to joke about eating disorders AT ALL, let alone about their own friend. Easier said than done, but show them that you are serious. People are going to take you the way you present yourself to them.

Guys that make jokes about girls are douchebags. I've met plenty. Stick up for the other friend who's being joked about, and don't let it get to you because these are just immature insecure teenage boys who don't mean a thing.

If your old friends still aren't willing to apologize, then move on. You obviously don't need them, and they obviously don't care about you. Typical advice: join activities, meet ppl with similar interests, etc.

I'm not going to tell you to go to an adult because I know how hard that is, but if you feel like things are still going downhill to a point where it is unbearable, and you have an adult that you can trust, you might confide in them.

I know all of this is easier said than done, but just some suggestions. Best of luck, and stay safe.

- AJ