Ch 3 Lesson 2 – Handling Emotions

Emotions – feelings that influence everything you do.   Emotions can be triggered by hormones (chemicals produced by glands, that control many bodily functions)

• Write 2 situations where you experienced the following emotions:

Expressing emotions in Healthy ways-

-Good communication- being able to express what you feel and why you feel this way.

-Managing fear and anxiety – Fear and anxiety can cause a number of “Psychosomatic Illnesses” such as cold sores, hives, rash, and other discomforting effects.  In order to cope with fear and anxiety, you can practice relaxation techniques, laughing at yourself, and/or planning ahead.

-Expressing Anger in Healthy ways- Ways to manage your anger.  Remember, “the storm may be beyond our control, but our reaction isn’t.”

·                            Take a deep breath; focus on what is making you angry; think of words to express your true feelings; tell the person how you feel while maintaining your composure.

Meeting Emotional Needs in Healthy Ways

Practicing Abstinence – refusing to participate in sexual activity before marriage. 

By doing so you;

·                            Choosing to avoid dangerous situations such as pregnancy or STD’s.

Refusal Skills  - Ways of communicating that help you say no effectively.

·                            Look the other person in the eye and say no using a firm, confident voice.

·                            Give a reason for saying no.  You do not necessarily have to give a reason, but doing so lets the other person know you’re serious.

·                            Avoid situations and people that pressure you to say yes to risk behaviors

Activity: Journaling is a healthy way to display you emotions no matter what they may be; anger, fear, disappointment, discouragement...Write a three paragraph journal entry on a separate sheet of paper to reflect on a time that you felt one of the emotions mentioned above.  No one will read this but you, so allow yourself to bare yourself.