Wellness Wednesday
Welcome to Wellness Wednesday!
We’ve experienced incredible uncertainty, change and loss over the last year. For many youth, not being able to connect with friends and engage in desired activities has been most paramount. As humans we’re wired to connect with others, and as teenagers this need becomes even more important and central to our daily schedule. For some, being home with our families so consistently is not the connection we hoped and dreamed of and is plain annoying. Others have experienced loss of loved ones and basic needs. Whatever your experience has been over this past year, you’re not alone! Not at all.
During times of increased stress, the importance of emotional self-care remains extremely important despite it often being more challenging to engage in. Here are two valuable tips to follow this Wednesday.
Connect with those around you. Social distancing does not mean isolation – connection feeds our emotional well-being and provides increased opportunities to exchange support, share stories and laugh! Call a friend or loved one or venture out on a socially distanced walk.
Take a moment to breath. It’s easy for our emotions to take over our ability to think clearly and rationally. When feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and take some deep breaths. Notice changes to your body and mind. Are your shoulders feeling more relaxed? Perhaps your heart rate drops and your jaw relaxes. Maybe your thoughts have stopped racing so quickly and so you can think more clearly. When you feel ready, revisit the original thought and if you remain overwhelmed repeat the process of pausing and breathing.
Above all, remind yourself that you are awesome and doing the best you can. Positive self-talk can do wonders both physically and emotionally. Tell yourself you’re doing awesome. Highlight something you were successful in within the last 24 hours, and lastly, give yourself a well-deserved hug!
You are not alone. Please reach out for support if needed.
Call YouthLine at 1.877.968.8491 or text teen2teen to 839863
If you are in crisis or concerned about your safety call Deschutes County Crisis Line at 541.322.7500 ext.9 or 911
