Positive Friendships

Good friends will show empathy during hard times. What is empathy?

• When a friend laughs at your joke

• The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person

• The ability to tell a story

• When someone gets frustrated at you

Describe a time when someone showed empathy to you OR you showed empathy to someone else.

What are the most important qualities in a good friend?

• Loyal

• Honest

• Sense of Humor

• Supportive

• Fun to Be Around

How do you like to be supported when going through a difficult time?

• Hugs!

• A Listening Ear

• Alone Time

• Gifts

• A Positive Distraction (example: playing a game)

Sometimes, we become triggered when feeling upset or angry. What is a trigger?

• A positive experience

• Something that makes you laugh

• An annoying person

• Something that affects your emotional state, causing stress

What makes you feel triggered?

• Feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork or activities

• Loud noises or crowds

• Arguments or conflict

• Not feeling seen or heard

• Other

What activities can help overcome stress? (CHOOSE 4):

• Taking deep breaths

• Exercising or taking a walk

• Ignoring everything around you

• Spending quality time with others

• Journaling, making art, or reading

A positive affirmation is a short phrase you can repeat to keep yourself grounded. For example, "I am calm in all situations" or "I stand up for myself." Write your own affirmation starting with "I am ______."

What are you most excited for in middle school? Type your response!