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This episode, Collett Smart teams up with Dr. Veya Seekis from Griffith University to discuss the transformative power of self-compassion in raising teens. Delve into actionable insights on acknowledging emotions, soothing techniques, and the difference between self-compassion and self-esteem. Listen as they explore practical steps for parents and teens to foster self-compassion, ensuring healthier emotional development and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

Definition of Self-Compassion: Self-compassion involves acknowledging one's pain, recognising it as a shared human experience, and offering oneself kindness, as one would to a friend.

Comparison with Self-Esteem: While self-esteem is contingent on success and external validation, self-compassion provides a stable, internal framework for managing stress and emotions.

Traffic Light System: This practical approach uses red for stopping and acknowledging feelings (mindfulness), amber for recognising shared humanity, and green for practicing self-kindness.

Benefits for Teens: Practicing self-compassion helps mitigate stress, prevents rumination, and may alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it a vital skill for teenagers.

Pilot Program Insights: Dr. Seekis’ school program shows that self-compassion techniques can be successfully integrated into the curriculum and can impact teens' ability to manage stress effectively.

Notable Quotes:

"In a nutshell, self-compassion is really just learning to be your own best friend."

"When we are being self-compassionate, we are acknowledging that we're in pain, understanding that this pain is not unique to us, and showing ourselves some kindness."

"Self-compassion is an emotion regulation strategy. It helps us in those moments when we're stressed, disappointed, or in pain."

"The traffic light system uses red to stop and acknowledge feelings, amber to recognise shared humanity, and green to practice self-kindness."

"Self-esteem can only be high during positive outcomes, whereas self-compassion offers a way to manage emotions irrespective of external success or failure."

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

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