What are feelings?

The 'feeling-ABC'

Angry Bored Confused Depressed Excited Furious

Glad Happy Irritable Jealous Kindly Loving

Mad Nervous Optimistic Panicked Queer Restless

Shocked Torn Unhappy Volatile Warm

Can you think of any more?

Feelings are part of everyone. We are always feeling something. Feelings are connected to your family, your friends, your body, nature, memories and experiences. Any feeling you have is a reaction to your experiences and adventures.

Negative or sad feelings are normal. It is very important to learn how to deal with those feelings. When you can explain to yourself and others what you feel, you and the people around you know what is happening to you and how to help.

Boys and girls need loving support from adults to learn how to deal with their feelings. They need adults who understand and talk to them and who can teach them to accept and handle good feelings as well as bad feelings.

Mixed feelings

• There are lots of different feelings
• Feelings are always there
• Feelings can change very quickly
• Feelings will pass, even if you can't imagine ever feeling better again
• There are happy and unhappy feelings
• There are feelings we have no words for
• It can be very helpful to let your feelings out by crying, laughing or being angry
• Sometimes it's good to talk about your feelings
• All children and adults have feelings
• You can trust your own feelings
• It's important to respect other peoples' feelings
• Sometimes it's good to sleep on feelings for the night
• Very young people have to learn how to handle their feelings
• You can show others your feelings but you don't have to