Feelings Identification
What is another way to say "angry"?
Furious, perturbed, annoyed, frustrated, irate, livid, outraged, indignant, offended, triggered, enraged, fuming, heated,aggravated
Mom told you that you are not allowed to play video games even though you finished all of your homework. How does that make you feel?
I feel [frustrated/angry/annoyed/irritated/sad] when Mom says I am not allowed to play my video games.
Going to therapy means something is wrong with you.
False - Going to therapy doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you. Therapy is a method of helping individuals reach their full potential and be the best versions of themselves.
Jefferey gets back his math test today. When he sees that he scored a 45%, he slams his books down and flips the desk over in anger. Is this a reaction or a response?
Reaction
What is a way to practice "physical self-care"?
Playing basketball or exercising
Eating veggies
Drinking lots of water
Sleeping a minimum of 8 hours per night
What is another way to say "sad"?
Gloomy, depressed, down, sorrowful, glum, blue, dismal, troubled, hopeless, negative, discouraged, morose, melancholy, bereaved, somber, heartbroken
Mom gets home from work and forgot to pick you up a bacon, egg and gouda from Starbucks on her way home. How does this make you feel?
I feel [upset/hangry/mad/irritated] when Mom forgets to get me food on her way home from work.
When I don't take my meds, I am a "problem child".
False - When I don't take my meds, I am a little more energetic, and have a harder time sitting still; but this is not my fault. Having ADHD makes certain tasks more difficult for me than for someone without it.
Jennifer learns that while she was at work, her great aunt passed away. She bursts out in tears. Is this a reaction or a response?
Reaction
Why is "self-care" important?
In order to be your best self and reach your full potential, it is important to do things to help yourself stay renewed, refreshed and unstressed!
Remember what I always say: You can't fill other people's cups from an empty pitcher!
What is another way to say "happy"?
Joyful, pleased, cheerful, exuberant, excited, jubilant, ecstatic, glad, delighted, tickled, content, lively, convivial, satisfied, elated, blissful, gleeful, merry, carefree
Kennedy is wandering around the house looking for you. She comes to your room and climbs right up on the bed, on your lap. How does this make you feel?
I feel [loved/needed/happy/important/affectionate] when Kennedy looks all over for me and wants to cuddle.
Personal growth gained from therapy doesn't happen overnight.
True - To see significant growth resulting from coming to therapy takes at least a month, give or take. However, progress as a result of coming to therapy, can be made little by little each session. Keep up the good work!
Avery decides to give his change from his shopping trip to the donation bucket in support of the military. The person manning the table with the donation bucket smiles and says, "Thank you so much!"
Is this a reaction or a response?
Response
What are some examples of "spiritual self-care"?
Meditating or doing yoga
Going to church or a place of worship
Practicing mindfulness
Getting in touch with something greater than us (i.e. walking in nature and appreciating the Earth, reading the Bible, utilizing guided imagery as a technique to remove yourself from a state of distress)
Flabbergasted, alarmed, shocked, stunned, floored, astonished, startled
You are at your Dad's house and he is questioning you about going to therapy. How does this make you feel?
I feel [uncomfortable/awkward/self-conscious] when Dad questions me about going to therapy.
Self-care is only important to do if you work in a helping profession. (i.e. nurse, teacher, social worker/therapist, guidance counselor, etc.)
False - Although individuals who work in one of these professions definitely needs to practice self-care frequently to prevent burn-out, EVERYONE must practice self-care in order to stay motivated, happy, and at peace with themselves.
The Golden State Warriors lose to the Celtics in the final game of the playoffs. Although you're bummed, you shrug your shoulders and comment, "Oh well. Maybe next year we'll win."
Is this a reaction or a response? Why?
Response
You used words to express your disappointment instead of acting out your feelings. A reaction to this situation may have been throwing your bowl of chips across the room as you are angry that the Warriors lost.
What are some examples of "professional self-care"?
Setting firm boundaries with coworkers or employees
Refraining from staying late or working more than the hours you're paid to work.
Being assertive with coworkers or your boss when feeling that you're being treated unfairly, or have an issue with something or someone.
Recognizing that your happiness and emotional well-being come before any job.
What is another way to say "energized"?
Motivated, determined, renewed, vibrant, invigorated, refreshed, inspired, passionate, enthusiastic, awakened, interested
Why are "I" Statements important to use when you disagree with someone, or your needs are not being met?
Using an "I" Statement when in disagreement with someone or faced with conflict is important because it is an assertive yet respectful way to articulate your feelings. Often times, when angry or upset we address others by telling them why THEY'RE wrong or what THEY need to do. Taking this approach usually causes the other person to get defensive, angry and lays the foundation for a hostile interaction.
Doing the dishes and scrubbing the toilet are forms of self-care.
False - these chores are examples of ways to care for the home but, they are responsibilities and necessary tasks that can often be a drag. Self-care activities should be enjoyable and cause one to feel renewed, calm, and happy.
Why is responding more effective than reacting?
Similarly to using "I" Statements, responding instead of reacting helps people articulate their feelings verbally, without creating a hostile interaction.
What are some examples of "emotional self-care"?
Write in a journal to express feelings
Engage in an activity for leisure (i.e. video games, watch a movie or show, play music)
Treat yourself! (i.e. go to Dairy Queen, Starbucks, etc.)
Get a massage or take a bubble bath