A Personal Journey Towards Healing
The Impact of Yelling on Our Children:
As a Telehealth therapist practicing in California, I’ve often witnessed the struggle many mothers face in managing emotions—especially the urge to yell at their children. This scenario is all too common: overwhelmed by stress and the daily demands of parenting, we sometimes lose our cool and raise our voices, leaving us grappling with feelings of guilt and shame.
Understanding the Effects of Yelling
Research has shown that yelling at children can have significant, lasting impacts on their development. When parents yell, it activates the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain, triggering a stress response similar to that of physical threats. This response releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can impair a child's emotional regulation and cognitive functions, including memory (AAP Publications) (NeuroLaunch.com). Children exposed to frequent yelling may develop anxiety and insecurity, and they might even adopt aggressive behaviors themselves
A Personal Testimony
I can relate deeply to these feelings. As a mom, I struggled with yelling at my kids, particularly during moments of frustration. In my quest to address this behavior, I even explored the idea of creating an app that would alert parents to increased body symptoms, helping them recognize when they were becoming overwhelmed. Unfortunately, the idea proved too complicated and expensive to develop.
Reflecting on these moments, I’ve come to understand the importance of self-compassion and awareness. I hope my children will one day be able to forgive me for the times I raised my voice. Acknowledging our struggles as parents is crucial, and I believe it can pave the way for healing and positive change.
Moving Forward: Finding Solutions
If you’re struggling with yelling at your kids, know that you’re not alone. Many mothers in my practice are navigating similar challenges, and together, we explore strategies to cultivate a more peaceful home environment. Here are a few effective tips:
Practice Mindfulness: Developing awareness of your emotional state can help you catch yourself before yelling. Techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can significantly reduce stress and promote calmness.
Positive Communication: Instead of yelling, try expressing your feelings and frustrations in a calm manner. This not only models appropriate emotional expression but also fosters a stronger connection with your children.
Seek Support: Telehealth therapy can provide a safe space to discuss these challenges. Whether in English or Hebrew, finding a therapist who understands your cultural and linguistic background can make all the difference.
Encourage Forgiveness: Remember that it’s okay to apologize to your children when you lose your temper. Acknowledging our mistakes teaches them valuable lessons about empathy and forgiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while yelling at our kids may seem like a natural reaction to stress, the consequences can be profound and long-lasting. As we navigate the complexities of parenting in California, let’s strive to create nurturing environments where our children feel safe and understood. With awareness, support, and a commitment to change, we can break the cycle of verbal aggression and foster healthier relationships within our families.
For more insights and support, visit my website at Milev Lelev and connect with me on Facebook.
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