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What’s The Best Option?

 

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What’s The Best Option?

depressed teen

Take a minute and pair up each of the problems below with the best option for intervention.

Problem

  1. Broken Leg
  2. Commit Murder
  3. Flat Tire
  4. Headache

Intervention

  1. Prison
  2. Walking Cast
  3. Tylenol
  4. Change Tire

Matching the items in the lists above was likely very easy since each of the problems was unique to the interventions listed.  But how would the pairings look if you just drew a line straight across? 

  • Would going to prison help someone with a broken leg?
  • If you have a headache, would changing a tire make it better? 

Obviously the answer to each of these questions is "no."  So what is the point to this exercise?  The intent is to think about your approach to solving problems. 

First of all, everyone has problems.  But just like every person is different, your problems and the best solutions for you are unique as well.  Don't fall into a trap of following trends that you read about or see on TV, or taking something to an extreme when it isn't necessary.  Accept that problems aren't going to be fixed immediately; you may have to deal with a little pain before things get better.

Sending someone to prison because of a broken leg doesn't make any sense.  Similarly, if you are heartbroken because of a relationship break-up, you may feel devastated and alone.  Does ending your life improve the feelings you are having, or will it rob you of the opportunity to experience a great love in the future?  Suicide is permanent and it closes the door to any future possibilities.  Look for ways to heal your heart so you can move forward rather than dwelling on the past.

When searching for answers to your problems, look at what options makes sense.  Some things are within your control, some things are not.  What can you do differently next time?  How can you look ahead and set yourself up for success in the future?  Every action involves a reaction.  React in a way that helps your situation, not one that makes it worse.

Discovering healthy ways to cope with emotional pain, learning from your mistakes, and continually setting new goals for yourself, will make you stronger and more resilient.  Being patient, emotionally strong, and able to cope with problems will set you up for future happiness and success. 

 

You don't have to face your problems alone!

Counselors are standing by.

Ways to Get Help