There is so much tension and turmoil today that it is hard to know what to focus on. Individuals and families feel overwhelmed, confused, and angry about what is happening in the world. Some families may need to take stock of what is truly important for one’s survival and happiness. This includes learning how to cope with trivialities, distractions, and issues outside of one’s control. This is no easy task given the complexities of families where individual wants and needs often compete with one another. What does it take for a family to get back to what matters? The best option is a professional family counseling program.
Counseling programs at Connections Wellness Group are available for residents in the Dallas / Fort Worth area. We offer family counseling in addition to comprehensive mental health services. Call 940.360.4245 or reach out online today to learn more or get started.
Time, Togetherness, and Alone Time
- A family needs time for all members to come together, do things together, and share common experiences. This togetherness should be specifically for the members of the family and not new boyfriends/girlfriends and best friends. Times spent with extended family and friends are lovely, but it is essential to mark certain times for family only. This time should be spent doing something together that everyone can participate in and enjoy. These shared experiences aid in bonding and trust.
- Children usually crave one-on-one time with a parent or both parents. Make sure that all of the children have this type of time since it is as important as togetherness time. Children may need to talk about issues that they don’t want to talk about in front of their siblings. They also may need to talk about difficult subjects without the distraction of siblings.
- Because too much togetherness may be overwhelming, everyone in the family needs time and privacy. Teaching children to respect parents’ and siblings’ privacy and alone time builds healthy boundaries.
Learning how to structure time to include family activities while leaving space for alone time is necessary for a balanced and healthy family dynamic. Communication between parents and children is essential, as well as limits and expectations. A family counselor can help you discuss the family’s needs and wants, understand each other better, and create strategies for continued success.
Stress Management and Problem-Solving
Some of the problematic disruptions families can face include the following:
- Substance abuse
- Mental illness
- Financial instability
- Divorce
- Infidelity
- Job loss
- Moving
- Blended families
Both adults and children need space and time to process what is happening in their world and how they can respond. This can be a time to teach children ways of problem-solving and coping when problems are beyond one’s control. Parents can help children explore what types of coping skills work best for them. The family can practice coping skills as a group through games, exercise, prayer, art, drama, meditation, and a variety of other techniques.
Reach Out to Connections Wellness Group
If you need help talking to your family about upsetting current events, stress, and problem-solving, family counseling services are available at Connections Wellness Group for residents of the Dallas / Fort Worth area.
A family therapist can help define goals and teach problem-solving, relaxation, communication, and conflict-management skills. There is no need to let the stresses of today lead to fear, anxiety, and anger. With the proper family counseling, it can be a time of growth, understanding, and seeing the family as a haven from the uncertainties of the world.
To learn more about our family counseling program or to ask questions, call 940.360.4245 or reach out online today.