Oftentimes, our teens are stressed with the rigors of school, social interactions and finding their path in life. This sometimes results in frustration and they may say things out of anger or frustration that they don’t really mean.
It is important to teach them just how powerful their words are and the lasting impact they leave on others. When someone is hurt by words, they may forgive that person but they will not forget it happened. Especially if it causes significant hardship or trauma.
The impression made when hurting others through their words becomes a part of how they are viewed by others and over time can lead to isolation.
Apologizing for being hurtful does not take away the pain caused, it just shows remorse and helps build connection. The recipient however, will always remember how they were made to feel regardless of a sincere apology.
Social Media has made it so easy to say something hurtful because the face to face interaction is gone and teens feel emboldened to speak unkindly because there is no immediate consequence.
What about the consequence to the person who is constantly reminded of it by others comments and notifications. Once it is out there, the world can see it. How cruel to do that to someone.
What about the words they say to themselves. If they are mean to themselves enough times, they begin to believe the narrative they have created about themselves and it impacts the choices they make in life.
They can forgive themselves too and that is a beautiful practice, but over time, those words hurt and can impact their self confidence and personal growth.
Words have power – choose wisely when using them!
#youthmentalhealth #wordshavepower #kindness