Reframe this thought
Just because I wasn't invited to one party doesn't mean people don't like me. I have friends who love and value me.
I didn't do well on my test. My teacher must be very disappointed in me.
My teacher probably just wants me to study more so I can get a better grade.
What does "trauma" mean?
Something scary or bad happened.
True or false: Millions of people are bitten by dogs every year.
True! It is estimated that over four million people a year are bitten by dogs.
Name three ways to calm down when you are angry.
.....
I feel really anxious right now. Something bad is probably going to happen.
Feeling anxious is uncomfortable, but it doesn't mean something bad is going to happen. I can use a strategy to calm myself down.
Everyone at this party must think I'm awkward.
I'm feeling a bit self-conscious, but I can't actually know what everyone else is thinking. I'll focus on enjoying the conversation.
After a trauma, people might feel ...
Confused, upset, angry, ashamed, guilty, sad, etc
True or False: Mostly adults are affected the most by dogs.
False
Why are relaxation strategies helpful after a trauma?
Relaxation strategies help us relax our bodies and mind when we are upset/angry/sad, etc.
I haven't heard back from my friend. They are probably mad at me.
There could be many reasons why my friend hasn't responded. She could be with her family or at practice. I will text later asking if everything is okay if I haven't heard from them.
If I speak up, everyone will think I'm stupid.
I can't predict how others will react. I'll share my ideas confidently and trust that they have value
True or False: After a trauma, a lot of people don't want to talk about it, even if they think about it a lot.
True!
True or False: Children are more likely to be affected by dog bites because their bodies are smaller and more fragile.
True
True or False: When you are relaxed, your muscles feel tight and tense.
False, when you are relaxed your body feels calm and peaceful.
I made a mistake on my test. I'm the biggest failure.
Everyone makes mistakes. I can learn and grow from them.
I should be getting all A's in school.
I am doing my best and working hard in school.
For something to be traumatic, it must mean that you always feel sad or mad.
False! These are only a few emotions and one can experience plenty of other feelings after a trauma.
True or False: Dog bites only affect people physically.
False, most cases the damage can be physical and emotional.
Does relaxation help the body, mind, or both?
Both!
I missed a goal at the game. The whole team is probably mad at me.
My team knows I tried my hardest and I tried my best in the game. I will practice and get better.
Today was a terrible day at school. School is terrible.
Today was a hard day, but tomorrow is new day.
True or False: Trauma could lead to feeling physically sick or unwell.
True! One might experience physical symptoms like stomach ache, feeling shaky, super fast heartbeat, hard time breathing etc.
True or False: Only big dogs bite.
False, any dog can bite someone.
True or false: I can use relaxation strategies anywhere I go.
True, things like deep breathing and tensing and releasing muscles can be done anywhere.