Today's world can be especially confusing and challenging for teenagers and young people and they face a confusing mix of emotions and experiences as they mature into adulthood. The skills they learn in this crucial period of development determine their ability to deal with stress and pressure, problem solve and relate confidently to others later in life. In other words, the emotional resilience created as a teen is key.
Numerous scientific studies have shown that resilience is a critical factor in determining mental wellbeing, especially in people under 18 years of age. Just like a muscle that must be strengthened to improve physical performance, resilience can be learnt and practised through a conscious process. With focus and the understanding of how to build resilience on a practical level, we can support the young people in our lives to positively overcome any setbacks and achieve their highest potential in life.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help children to understand the link between a triggering event (meeting someone new), their thoughts ('they won't like me') and core beliefs about themselves ('I'm worthless') resulting in a certain behaviour ('avoid talking and sit in a corner'). By challenging these negative automatic thoughts, CBT can help children to manage a variety of situations more positively.