Emotional ups and downs are a normal part of life. Young people go through this too, but because they are still learning about their feelings, it can be confusing for them. This confusion may lead to frustration or acting out, which is why it is beneficial to learn how to manage their emotions effectively.
The Emotional Ups and Downs worksheet provides a structured way for clients to reflect on their feelings. It asks questions that allow them to identify positive and negative emotions they've felt in a day, how they behaved, and actions they can take to cope and feel better during difficult times.
By using this worksheet, kids and teens can better understand and manage their emotions. We recommend engaging in this activity regularly, so they can make more mindful choices about how to act or behave.
To help them stay engaged, parents and teachers can explain the importance of tracking emotions daily. For example, they can set a specific time each day, like after dinner or before bed, to sit down and fill out the worksheet together. Providing positive reinforcement, like praise or small rewards, can also motivate kids to stick with this helpful habit.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of feelings worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Green, K. H., Van de Groep, S., Sweijen, S. W., Becht, A. I., Buijzen, M., De Leeuw, R. N., Remmerswaal, D., Van der Zanden, R., Engels, R. C., & Crone, E. A. (2021). Mood and emotional reactivity of adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: Short-term and long-term effects and the impact of social and socioeconomic stressors. Scientific Reports, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-90851-x
- Leger, K. A., Charles, S. T., & Fingerman, K. L. (2019). Affect variability and sleep: Emotional ups and downs are related to a poorer night's rest. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 124, 109758. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2019.109758
- Rajan, Pradeep & Rajan, Sundara & Nagalingam, Saranya & Arumugam, Balaji. (2018). Behavioral and Emotional Changes among Adolescent Populace. 6. 131 - 134. 10.17354/ijss/2018/26.
