Monday, October 24, 2022
Do you find it hard to empathize with others?
As Dr. Curt Thompson, Christian psychiatrist, points out, “it is a practice we necessarily must learn as human beings; we do not simply come by it naturally in the same way that we come by breathing. We learn about it by witnessing it being practiced by others or receiving it ourselves.” The challenge is that empathy requires us to slow down, listen and tune in to what others are feeling and experiencing. But it's vitally important for us because:
- It builds connection, community and meaningful relationships
- It helps us to not feel alone
- It is how we grow our hearts for others and become more compassionate
- It gives us an opportunity to love someone in the same way God loves us
- It grow our compassion for others experiences and challenges
In other words, it improves our own mental health.
If you’re finding empathy difficult, consider developing empathy by:
- Talking to God openly and honestly about our own struggles. It’s easier to give empathy when we remember that we receive it daily from a God who has compassion for us.
- Get curious. Step into another person’s world to understand what it’s like. Ask more questions than making statements, and just listen to their answers.
- Put away your phone/other devices when talking with others, especially those you see the most. Notice their body language, what they're saying and what they aren’t saying. Be present with them in the same way you want someone to be present with you.
Resource: https://curtthompsonmd.com
For Parents:
As a parent navigating mental health, you’re on a journey that doesn’t have a clear finish line. The best thing you can do is keep showing up for your kid, adjusting when necessary, and getting outside help when you need it. And always remember you are not alone. There will be times when you are crushing it and totally on top of the state of your kid’s mental health. But there will also be times when you feel like you’re totally lost and back to square one. And that’s okay too.
Here are some questions you can use to reflect:
Reflect on three things from 60 Days to Better Mental Health that you want to hold onto as you parent and navigate mental health in your home.
Reflect on three things you want to share with your family or friends that may help them navigate their kid or teenager’s mental health—or maybe their own.