Catastrophizing
Why:
It's developmentally normal for adolescents to "catastrophize", or interpret situations in the absolute worst way. By labeling and discussing this pattern, we are less likely to be caught in it.
Warm-Up:
What is a time when you thought something was going to be way worse than it actually was? Facilitator models a vulnerable answer first.
Exploration:
It's hard to guess what others are feeling, so sometimes when it isn't clear, we assume the worst. But sometimes we get carried away with worry. That's called "catastrophizing." We can catch this pattern in action. As the template shows, try making a map with three parts: an event that triggers worry for you, a negative interpretation you make about it, and then a "what if it gets even worse" interpretation. After you have that, can you imagine what would break the cycle? What could you say to yourself, or do, to stop the cycle before you catastrophize? Invite students to reflect, share, and discuss.