Boundaries: How to set them and why they’re so important.

Ask Rachel anything Boundaries exist, regardless of whether we're conscious of them or not. The first place we experience them is in our own home, and the way they are created, managed and enforced can set us up for a lifetime of healthy relationships, or difficulty coping with other humans. In this episode Susie and I discuss what a boundary is, how we uncover our own boundaries and create and uphold healthy ones within our own families. It's a fascinating area for us parents who were raised in an era where the term barely existed, and the mental health issues that come with poor boundaries went unacknowledged. We'd love to hear your feedback, ideas and questions. Email [email protected] or send a text using the button at the top of the podcast notes. SOURCES: https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/teens-health-boundaries/#:~:text=Healthy%20boundaries%20support%20adolescents'%20ability,and%20sometimes%20verbally%20as%20well. https://psychcentral.com/lib/10-way-to-build-and-preserve-better-boundaries#10-tips https://www.verywellhealth.com/setting-boundaries-5208802 Boundary Exercises from verywellhealth When you set boundaries, you're communicating to others how you want and expect to be treated. Here are a few exercises that can help when you feel tongue-tied: Use "I" statements: I feel ______ when _____ is said to me. When this happens______, I feel_____. When you feel disrespected: I don't like the way I'm being spoken to right now. I would like to talk about this but now is not the right time. I would prefer to discuss this when we can be calmer about it. Buy yourself some time: I'm not sure right now. Can I come to you once I've thought about it? I need more time to think, but I will get back to you. When you want to say "no" with a little more explanation: I would love to, but my plate is really full right now. I would if I could, but I'm unable to help with that right now. I really appreciate the invitation, but I'm not interested in participating. Seeking consent with sexual boundaries: Are you okay with this? Do you want to continue? Are you comfortable if I____? Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episode on Substack: My email [email protected] My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook