Anxiety

Life in Relationship

How do I tell the difference between my anxiety and my child’s?

Attachment relationships are more connected for regulation

The value of presence

The detriment of sponging emotion

Tip #1 – adults can bring the emotions to consciousness for kids

Notice and name the emotion in the room

Also helps us differentiate between my emotion and someone else

Tip #2 – go out into nature/Creation to release some emotion

Link to forest therapy info: https://www.natureandforesttherapy.earth/

Tip #3 – know your own “stuff” (triggers, concerns, traumas)

Tip #4 – do not assume an emotion, ask about an emotion

Tip #5 – Be aware of triggers with no shame

Practice accountability with kindness

“I am uncomfortable. I want to hear what you have to say. I want to know what’s going on with you. The way it’s coming out is challenging for me.”

Tip #6 – hold the duality of parental responsibility with deep parental love and connection

Common questions: will they be ok? Will I mess them up? What am I missing?

Give yourself space to learn and grow

Try to help kids be unburdened by adult problems

Tip # 7 – Maintain your connection with God

Pouring out your emotions with God

Resting with God

Rhythms of prayer as emotionally regulating

Hear God speaking to your emotions as a Gospel-oriented, invitation-to-relationship God