Counselor's Corner - from Jessica Dambach
As we end our first week of school it has been quite impressive to see so many nervous students visibly begin to relax and enjoy themselves at school. The smiles and connections are very inspiring to see as the students begin to embrace the opportunities in Middle Level.
Many students feel anxious and overwhelmed during the school year and allowing them to talk about it without trying to solve it for them allows them to understand their own reactions. If they do need help managing these feelings, here is one strategy that give them a guide. It is a good practice for all of us!
Name the feeling: "Sounds like you are feeling overwhelmed, etc"
Normalize it for them: "Most people feel this at one time or another"
Notice where they feel it: "My stomach feels sick"
Have them take a deep breath: This can shift it in their body - it may take a few.
Have them talk to themselves: "I can do this, it is uncomfortable, but I can do it"
If these feelings are causing distress to the point of disrupting sleeping or eating patterns, it may be helpful to meet with a counselor to work on additional strategies for managing. Please reach out if you have questions or concerns with your child.
Thank you, Jessica Dambach
