“It’s ok to step away.” – Why It’s Important for Parents to Regulate Emotions

On March 13, the Listuguj Community Social Service Directorate hosted a Prenatal/Post-Natal Support Co-regulation event at the Listuguj Community Development Center (Bingo Hall). The event featured guest speaker Stacie Quigley Cormier, Manager and Licensed Counselling Therapist at the Mind At Peace Center in Campbellton.

The Mind at Peace Center offers a variety of services, such as therapy, a dietician, financial counselling and more.

Quigley Cormier’s presentation was titled, “Supporting Yours, and Your Baby’s Nervous System.” She specializes in the nervous system and spoke about the importance of regulating emotions. It’s no secret that being a parent is very hard work, physically, mentally and emotionally. Self-regulation allows individuals to be the best versions of themselves while parenting. To help soothe and regulate a baby or toddler’s emotions, it is beneficial for individuals to regulate themselves prior.  Babies are only born with a partially developed nervous system; therefore, it is important for parents and guardians to assist in teaching the tools on how to regulate the nervous system.

When assisting a child who is upset, it’s important to have yourself in check. Take a breath and focus on connecting with the child. Make eye contact and get on their level. Ask important questions: “What’s going on? What can I help you with?” Do not offer a solution, offer affection and care.

It is ok to feel overwhelmed and overstimulated, as this is natural human emotion. Quigley Cormier touched on self-regulation strategies, such as taking a pause, changing body temperature, movement, laughter, positive self-talk, and humming or singing. It’s also important to care for yourself and invest in your own happiness.

Quigley Cormier stressed that it is NOT selfish to simply step away in a situation and get emotions under control. It’s also important to recognize dysregulation in yourself. (Irritability, feeling helpless or guilty, tearful reactions, etc.)

If an individual is having difficulties regulating their emotions, or are feeling overwhelmed, help and resources are available. Quigley Cormier said, “Mental health support can look like what you need it to be.”

In Listuguj, there are several resources available within the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government:

Listuguj Community Health Services – 418-788-2155.  
Listuguj Community Social Services – 418-788-3039

The Mind at Peace Center is also an option. You can contact them at 506-525-2976 or find them on Facebook at Mind at Peace Center/Centre Mieux-Être.

By Ann Marie Jacques