Our mind is as essential as our body. We all feel happy, sad, scared, or worried. Sometimes, these feelings feel very big. Talking about our feelings can help us feel safer. This month, let’s open up and share. When we speak, we show we care. We lift each other up. My Tribe Counseling is here to walk with you. We know that a kind chat can light the way to a brighter day.
Why Talking Helps
When we share our worries, they shrink a little. Our heart feels lighter. We learn that others feel the same way about school, friends, or family. Talking can bring new ideas, like drawing, playing, or taking a walk, to help us feel calm. Keeping big feelings inside can make them grow and feel scary. Sharing stops scary thoughts from increasing. It brings back rest and peace. At My Tribe Counseling, we see how brave it is to talk. We cheer you on every step of the way.
How to Start a Talk
Getting started is simple and brave. You can say, “Can we chat?” or “I want to share.” Find a quiet spot, your room, a treehouse, or under a table. You can sit, stand, or take a slow walk. Look at each other’s faces or hold hands. Speak in soft, slow words. You might use a feelings chart, or emoji faces to show your mood. If talking feels hard, first draw your feelings. You can write a note, send a text, or show a picture. You don’t have to say everything at once. Just one word, like “sad,” can begin the chat. The rest of the words will come. My Tribe Counseling also offers feel-good worksheets you can use to name feelings and start talking.
Talking at School or Home
Talking at school or home can feel scary at first. Pick someone you trust, a teacher, a school counselor, a parent, or a friend. You might say, “I’m worried about my grades,” or “I feel upset today.” If they say, “I’m okay,” you can gently say, “I’m here if you ever want to chat.” Find a cozy corner of the library, your backyard, or even a blanket fort. For little ones, toys, puppets, or storybooks can make talking fun. Role-play with a stuffed animal first. My Tribe Counseling runs family talk sessions where everyone can share safely, with games and kind questions.
Listening and Helping
Being a good listener is a kind gift. When someone speaks, you can:
- Face them and look at their eyes.
- Stay quiet and focus on their words.
- Nod your head to show you understand.
- Say, “I hear you,” or “That sounds hard.”
Let them finish their story. After, you can say, “Thank you for sharing.” Do not say, “Cheer up” or “Stop crying.” Those words can hurt more. You don’t need to fix their problems. Simply sharing warmth and care can ease their pain. You might share a little of your feelings, too. This shows you trust them. Sometimes, a gentle hug, a hand squeeze, or a kind smile means more than words. At My Tribe Counseling, our team practices active listening every day. We train to hold space for your feelings without judgment.
Try Group Activities
Talking can feel easier in a group. You can try:
- Feelings art: Draw or paint what you feel, then discuss your picture.
- Emotion stories: Read a short story. Pause and share how the characters feel.
- Calm games: Take turns naming feelings while tossing a softball.
- Nature walks: Walk in a park. Talk about clouds and birds, then share emotions.
- Music time: Play a soft song. Talk about what it makes you feel.
- Club chat: Join a hobby club. Share how your hobby makes you happy or calm.
Group talks show that many people have feelings every day. They teach us new ways to cope. When you see others share, you may feel braver, too. Keep the group kind, patient, and respectful. Make sure everyone gets a turn.
What to Do in an Emergency
Sometimes, feelings get too big to handle alone. If someone says they want to hurt themselves or others, act right away:
- Stay calm and speak in a soft voice.
- Stay close, do not leave them alone.
- Ask, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
- Call for help.
In the United States, dial 911 or 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you live elsewhere, look up your local hotlines. Tell a trusted adult, like a teacher or neighbor. Keep speaking gently: “You are not alone. I care about you.” Do not promise things you cannot keep. Getting help fast can save a life. Always take these moments very seriously.
Let’s Keep Talking
Talking about mental health is brave and caring. Each kind word brings us closer. Small chats can change a whole day. Every time we speak, we break the silence and stop the shame. This month and every month, let’s ask, share, and truly listen. My Tribe Counseling will be here, cheering you on. Find someone you trust and ask, “How do you feel?” Your words can make a world of difference, and you are never alone.
At My Tribe Counseling, we know every voice matters. Each heart deserves care. Our caring team helps you manage stress, worry, and find hope for a better tomorrow. Contact us today.
FAQs
Why should I talk about my feelings?
Talking about feelings helps them feel smaller. When you share, you see you’re not alone. It can make your heart feel lighter and your mind calmer.
What if I don’t know the right words?
It’s okay. You can start with one word: “I’m sad” or “I’m worried.” You can also draw a picture or show an emoji. The important part is you begin.
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