The Late in Life Writer: Spirals Go In All directions

As a retired Clinical Social Worker, I worked with clients who had addictions and /or mental health issues, working with parents and teens, either of which could be the "primary client" in therapy, we would often talk about "spiraling out of control" and resetting the spiral in an upward, positive direction. For many people, a visual helps to integrate a concept to motivate change.

What does this image bring to mind?

Sometimes people get stuck in a thought pattern and oscillate back and forth within a short range. They can become frustrated and eventually feel trapped, which can lead to depression or self-medication in the form of a downward spiral.

Empowering that person, regardless of age, to explore where small changes can help is a start. We've all had that at times in our lives.

But what to do if the behavior and emotional response feel overwhelming? If someone doesn't believe they have the tools to make a change, we can offer small steps to try. Then we can explore the outcome.

When I wrote "You Can't Make Me! Only I Can Change How I Feel!" back in 2020, it was in response to the circumstances thrust upon us by the COVID shutdown. However, I purposefully added "every day" topics, knowing that the "tweens" (ages 9-15) would have the toughest time given everything that goes on in the body and brain of adolescents. So now you might be thinking: Where is she going with this?

When I said small changes can be helpful (above), I chose an "unconventional" process to put the physical book together in a way that would not inhibit kids from writing what they were feeling. It is a spiral binding! Did you ever try to write something in a paperback book? Not easy! You struggle to hold the book open AND write.

The spiral (binding) is a way to make writing easier for kids. Simply put, it lies flat. No need for an elbow or forearm to keep it open. When I write and teach journaling for this age group AND expect them to put down their thoughts, I don't want any barriers.

It lies perfectly flat!

So if emotions are running high, dare I say "spiraling" up or down, in your adolescent's life, you might want to consider giving them a copy of my book. I guide them throughout the book, starting with the fact that it is not necessary to read it front to back! The phrase "Start where you're at!" is a key component for helping people (young or old) to facilitate change. I also throw in a note for parents to "Give them (their child or grandchild) the space they need to figure this all out on their own. Also, to let them know you are available IF they want help."

I hope you think of me and my book when you hear the word "spiral" and if you know a tween or tween care taker that could use a new resource check it out.