Let’s Learn About
Mental Health
Sad
What it feels like:
Your body might feel heavy or tired. Your eyes might get watery, or you might feel a lump in your throat.
Coping Strategy:
Wrap yourself in a blanket and let yourself cry if you need to—crying can help you feel better, and talking to a trusted grown-up can help too.
Happy
What it feels like:
Your heart feels warm, your face has a big smile, and you might feel bouncy or giggly.
Coping Strategy:
Share the moment—high-five a friend, draw a picture, or tell someone what made you smile.
Confused
What it feels like:
Your eyebrows scrunch up, your brain feels fuzzy, and your chest might feel tight because you're not sure what's happening.
Coping Strategy:
Take a breath and remind yourself it's okay not to know everything right now. Ask a teacher, parent, or older sibling to help you figure it out.
Meet Your Emotions
All feelings—even the tricky ones—are normal. Emotions are a bit like weather in your brain, and you can learn to be your own weather reporter. Here are four common emotions, how they might feel in your body, and ways to manage them.
Worried
What it feels like:
Your tummy might feel fluttery, your hands might feel sweaty, and your thoughts might race about what could happen next.
Coping Strategy:
Take slow, deep breaths and talk to a trusted grown-up about what's worrying you. Saying the worry out loud can help it feel smaller.
6 Steps to Feeling Calm
Feeling a little hyper, worried, or just need a break? Try these 6 simple steps to help you relax:
Find a quiet place
Find a quiet, cozy spot where you feel safe and comfy—your bedroom floor, a favorite chair, or a pile of pillows.
4
Breathe in…
Breathe in slowly through your nose. Count: 1…2…3…4. Imagine your belly filling up like a balloon.
Get comfortable
Sit up tall, or lie down flat—whatever feels most relaxed.
5
Hold it…
Hold that breath for a moment. Count softly: 1…2…3…4.
Close your eyes
Gently close your eyes or look softly down at the floor.
6
…And breath out
Breathe out slowly through your mouth, like blowing out a candle: 1…2…3…4. Notice your worries starting to melt away.