WALKING ALONGSIDE YOUTH - AN ONLINE ANXIETY COURSE
Session 4
NOURISH
youth with anxiety through relationship
Nourishing: Filling the relational void
Youth with anxiety who are facing unbearable separation from their families are at risk of becoming resistant to relationship—which can make it challenging for you, as a caregiver or care provider, to help them. A youth who resists relationship with a safe adult may turn to their peer group or technology to meet their needs, which puts them at greater risk of intensified alarm and increased anxiety symptoms.
Relationship is the most important factor in reducing alarm, easing symptoms of anxiety, and supporting the development of a youth’s resilience and confidence. Your priority is to fill the relational void the youth is experiencing in ways that respect and hold up their family of origin and traditional ways.
Ashley's Story
As you go thru the course, hear the firsthand perspective of Ashley, a former youth in care.
If you have taken the time to honour the youth in your care, you will have gained a sense of who they are, what matters to them, and what kinds of lacks and losses they have experienced—or may still be experiencing. These insights can now inform your approach to nourishing the youth by meeting their relational needs. This may include creating relationship rituals around food, play, nature and traditions that include extended family members, Elders and cultural activities.