What would I tell a friend?

This worksheet encourages active engagement by inviting young people to cut and match self-critical statements with kinder, rephrased responses.

This hands-on activity promotes reflection and helps them practise shifting negative self-talk into supportive, constructive perspectives, building self-esteem and emotional resilience.

References and Further Reading 

  • Neff, K. D., & McGehee, P. (2009). Self-compassion and psychological resilience among adolescents and young adults. Self and Identity, 9(3), 225–240. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298860902979307.
  • Wakelin, K. E., Perman, G., & Simonds, L. M. (2021). Effectiveness of self-compassion-related interventions for reducing self-criticism: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2586.
  • Bluth, K., & Eisenlohr-Moul, T. (2017). Making friends with yourself: A mixed-methods pilot study of a mindful self-compassion program for adolescents. Mindfulness, 8(6), 1601–1615. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-017-0736-y.