Counselor and Author Brittany Stevens

In this conversation, Ria Flanagan and Brittany Pollard-Stevens discuss the importance of emotional awareness, particularly in children, and how it relates to trauma and addiction. Brittany shares insights from her work as a substance abuse counselor and her children's book, 'Chloe, the Moody Manatee,' which aims to help children understand their emotions. They explore the challenges posed by the digital age, the significance of connection and mindfulness, and the need for parents to be aware of their children's emotional and digital experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing emotions rather than numbing them and encourages listeners to take control of their emotional well-being.takeaways Emotions are essential for understanding unmet needs. Teaching children about emotions fosters emotional intelligence. Trauma and addiction often stem from an inability to process emotions. The digital age presents unique challenges for emotional development. Mindfulness and connection are crucial in combating addiction. Parents should be selective about their children's digital content. Children's books can be powerful tools for emotional education. Numbing emotions can prevent experiencing joy and love. Delaying gratification is key to overcoming addictive behaviors. Creating open dialogues about feelings can strengthen family bonds.