new Beginnings and resilience
check out this video on what resilience means to young people and how it is useful in times of change
What's it all about?
This is the time of year when a lot of young people are having to deal with a lot of change. Starting at a new school or college can be difficult; read on for some tips, information and activities that might help.
try this
Try speaking to someone you know that has coped with a school move or another type of change similar to what you are going through. If you are struggling it is always a good idea to talk to someone that understands and they might have some great tips to suggest!
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think on this
Most people feel worried, nervous or overwhelmed when starting somewhere new. Remember that you are not alone and there is help available.
take into account
Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.
why do i feel like this?
Starting at a new school or college can be challenging. The Feelings Volcano pictured opposite represents the different ways young people might feel. Talking to someone you trust about how you feel can help you to feel less overwhelmed and prevent the volcano from erupting.
Resilience
It’s normal to experience many different feelings about upcoming change. We can build up our resilience to help us cope with these changes in a number of ways.
- Manage stress levels - we cope better when we have had enough sleep and exercise.
- Develop your interests and hobbies - give yourself a boost of enjoyment and confidence.
- Consider what is in your control and what you have the power to change.
- Break up goals into small goals - this will enable small achievements along the way.
- Try to accept when things haven’t gone to plan and look for learning.
what is self-care?
Self-care is the small things we do to look after our mental health. What works for your friends may be completely different for what works for you. What matters is listening to yourself and trying to give your mind what it needs. Youngminds asked these young people what self-care means to them.
Watch for top tips on how you can use poetry as self-care.
have a go!
If you are struggling with your new beginning, have a think about how our thoughts can impact how we feel and what we do. if we think more postively or try to reframe things it can help raise our self esteem, feel more positive and do positive things. These are called positive affirmations. The more we practice using them the more automatic using them becomes.
I deserve to be happy
I've got this!
Mistakes are the stepping stones to success
What can adults do?
Click on the image for top 10 tips to support your young person with change.
Head to Young Minds for a parent and carer guide to supporting your young person with change.
