Coping with difficult feelings

Whatever you are feeling, your feelings are valid.

What are you feeling?

If you find that your feelings are becoming difficult to handle, it can help to try to identify the exact feeling(s) you are having. Figure out what you are feeling.

Acknowledging how you feel can be uncomfortable. We've all been there: Sometimes it seems easier to avoid our feelings. However, avoiding our feelings are usually only a "short-term fix", not a long-term solution.

Why are you feeling this way?

Once you have a sense of how you feel, ask yourself why you feel a certain way. Are some situations more difficult than others? Are your feelings related to certain people in particular?

How you can manage the feeling(s)?

Thinking about what you feel and why you feel a certain way makes it easier to figure out how to cope with the feeling(s). 

On this page are some tips for ways you can start to explore these questions.

You may prefer to deal with your feelings on your own, since it can feel awkward to open up about your feelings.

However, many students find that talking someone else really helps. Telling someone about how you feel can help you make sense of your thoughts, and it can help you feel less alone.

The person you talk to may be a friend. Other times, it is better and safer to talk to a trusted adult such as a teacher you trust (like a tutor, Head of House), or a parent. If you are struggling with difficult feelings and thoughts, we strongly urge you to seek support from a trusted adult in school (see Your supports at SIS) or a parent.

Counselling might be a good option for you if you want to have a confidential conversation with someone at school who is not a teacher. Our School Counsellor, Ms. Julianne, and our School Social Workers, Ms. Kamy and Ms. Stephanie, are here for you.

Remember, here at SIS, you have a large support system. If you wish to talk to someone, you are not alone.