Hey everybody. Today’s post contains a share from a terrific writer, Karen Young, who runs a blog called “Hey Sigmund.” Click here to read it. I am sharing her post because she explores how difficult it can be for teens and littles to manage intense emotions. One of the most important skills you can learn is to step back and view the situation as if you were watching it on TV or at a play. This buys you time before you react, and time before you say something or do something you cannot take back.
Managing Intense Emotions Is Tough: It’s About Self Regulation
Self regulation is what we mean when we talk about managing intense emotions. You have no doubt seen your child melt down when they simply could not deal with a change or request that to you might seem simple. It takes a long time to learn how to deal with those emotions! The post above covers several good examples, plus helpful tips on how you can help your child/teen grow in this area. Anxiety, anger, shame, fear, confusion–all are big, and your gentle direction is much needed. Just be careful as your child grows that you don’t over-help. When you over-help you run the risk of creating a reassurance junkie, a person who cannot look to their own inner resources to evaluate and solve problems. The goal, over time, is to let them learn how to do these big feelings so they succeed in their work and life relationships
If you are doubting how you parent these rough phases, or if you simply need a second opinion, call or shoot me an email, I’m in your neighborhood and ready to help.
Page Rutledge, LCSW, MSW, MPH is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Wilmington, NC. She specializes in anxiety management and couples communication. Visit her website and blog at www.pagerutledge.com