Giving someone in pain advice based on our experiences crowds out what a distressed person really does need – a reflection, pure acknowledgement, to be seen and listened to.
by blogger Julia Whiting.
Theodore Roosevelt was famously quoted as saying “comparison is the thief of joy” and for me this phrase sums up the way that relentlessly comparing myself to others makes me feel.
If it’s cold, wet and dark outside, make your home cosy, warm and inviting inside. Light up your rooms with fairy lights and warm lighting, and change into soft, comfortable, warm clothing.
Cold rainy weather can make people feel down. You can change your outlook: rain cleanses pollution particles from the air, waters all the flowers in your garden and can be fun to play in.
Notice the way others speak around you. Sometimes our peers contribute to the way we talk to ourselves. Surround yourself with people who encourage you and who have the same outlook you wish to attain.
by survivor Bob Balfour.
For those of you with a fondness for Star Wars, I hope you’ve enjoyed ‘The Force Awakens’ – or are looking forward to enjoying it. For those of you who are not so keen, I hope you’ll bear with me as I use ‘Star Wars’ references to explore some reflections on The Independent Inquiry into Childhood Sexual Abuse (IICSA) as a male, who is also a survivor activist.
If you need to talk to someone about child sexual abuse, call ChildLine (0800 1111) if you are under 18 or NSPCC (0808 800 5000) otherwise. If someone is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
Children who have been sexually abused may feel many emotions: dissociation, confusion, fear, guilt, and shame. Sexual abusers often shift blame for the abuse to the child, making them believe the abuse was their fault.
Make a list of the positive ways you wish to think, including goals and proactive steps to achieving them. Use the list to shift your inner dialogue and remember what you are working towards.
by author Rachel Kelly.
January is the time of year when many of us, old and young, pause to reflect on the year that’s passed and make plans for the year ahead. Some of us write resolutions, others a list of goals – all with the intention of becoming that little bit happier.