This is a society-wide problem. These kids who can’t get care will likely end up back in crisis, which will continue well into adulthood. We already see this in adults who cannot access care, one ER visit after the other for years.
You can’t “positive thought” your way out of living in a polluted environment and poverty.
In Louisiana, we are headed into the heart of Mardi Gras season. This is the time to do things just for fun. It might be tradition or about being connected to your krewe, but it’s mostly about fun. Life is too short not to make some time for having fun. With all the negative things out there, it might be imperative that we find that time in our current world. Without it, we are all fairly miserable. We can take a break from “all of this” and have fun. It’s what makes putting up with the rest of it worthwhile.
When I started on this, I didn’t realize I’d be doing these sessions in the wake of layoffs and the middle of a bunch of other changes impacting these folks. Suddenly the conversation about their career goals has turned into a conversation about the trauma of going through a layoff.
As I mentioned to someone recently, this was more emotional labor than I had anticipated.
Growing up, I was timid and socially awkward. There are other reasons for this, but let’s be honest, hiding my secrets and being much too busy surviving to bother with learning social skills played a big role. I had to learn later in life; even at age 54, I’m still learning. If you find yourself in the same situation, perhaps one of these could help. If you know of a teen or child, who could use some help with social skills, there are items on the list for them too.
How we show up for other people matters. We can provide that place of safety in which they can heal and flourish. Too often, we don’t, though. We don’t know what to do, so we don’t show up. We don’t understand the importance of showing up, even if it’s not perfect, just to let people know that they are not alone in difficult situations. Everything is harder when you go through it alone, so show up for your people.
