GCMHP Conducts Group Psychosocial Support Session for Children: “Recognizing and Managing Emotions”

GCMHP conducted a group psychosocial support session for children titled “Recognizing and Managing Emotions” with the participation of 30 girls. The session aimed to help children identify their different emotions and practice simple coping strategies amidst the ongoing war, fear, and stress.

The session began with a short role-playing activity, where children expressed emotions such as joy, sadness, anger, and fear through facial expressions and body movements. They were then reassured that all emotions are normal and expressing them is healthy.

Keyactivitiesincluded:

• “Smell the Rose” Technique: Children practiced deep inhalation as if smelling a rose, followed by slow exhalation to help calm tension.

• “Butterfly Hug” Technique: Children crossed their arms over their chest like butterfly wings and tapped their shoulders lightly while breathing to ease fear and anxiety.

• Managing Fear Exercise: Using the “Countdown 5–4–3–2–1” exercise to focus on the present moment.

•  Drawing Emotions: Children drew recent strong feelings (joy, sadness, fear, anger)and shared their artwork, helping them express emotions safely and non-verbally.

•  Seeking Help: Children were guided to use clear phrases like “I’m scared and I want to talk” or “I’m sad and need help,” emphasizing turning to a trusted adult.

The children actively engaged in role-play and drawing activities, enjoyed breathing and relaxation techniques, and demonstrated improved ability to identify and express emotions. They reported feeling relieved after practicing the exercises and learned that it is their right to ask for help when needed.

The session concluded with a reminder that all emotions are normal and can be managed safely, while reinforcing a sense of safety through collective positive affirmations: “I am strong– I am not alone – I can calm down.”