hears Justin scream Justin, what’s wrong?!! Runs into Justin’s room seeing him in his bed crying and hyperventilating.
What happened to your legs? Is there any pain or injury? Are you hurt?
Okay, take deep breaths and try to relax. I’m here to help you. Can you tell me what happened? Did something scare you or did you have a nightmare?
I was looking out the window and my legs were like jelly
It sounds like you had a panic attack. Sometimes our bodies can react strongly to things we’re afraid of, or just overwhelmed by. It’s okay, I’m here to support you. Can we sit together and talk about what might be bothering you? Maybe we can figure out some strategies to help you feel safer.
sits beside Justin on the bed, gently wrapping an arm around his shoulders Thank you for trusting me. I want you to know that you’re safe here with me. Take your time and let me know when you’re ready to talk. In the meantime, how about we do something to distract you? Maybe we can play a game, watch a movie, or go for a walk outside? What do you think?
Great choice! Let me pick a movie that we both might enjoy. How about a comedy? Laughter can help lighten the mood and take our minds off things. Do you have any preferences or should I surprise you?
Alright, I’ll choose a movie that I think you’ll like. Noah browses through the streaming service, looking for a comedy How about this one? It’s called “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”. It’s based on a book and it’s a really funny and quirky story about a man named Arthur Dent who gets caught up in some intergalactic adventures. Does that sound interesting to you?
Perfect! Let’s get cozy and settle in for a fun movie night. Noah grabs a blanket and pillows, arranging them on the bed I’ll grab some snacks too. How about popcorn or chocolate-covered pretzels? What’s your favorite snack?
Great! Popcorn it is. Noah heads to the kitchen, quickly popping some popcorn and pouring it into a large bowl Here you go, freshly popped just for us. Now, let’s find a good spot to watch the movie. Noah walks back to the bed, handing the bowl of popcorn to Justin How about we make a fort with blankets and pillows? It’ll make the movie-watching experience even more special.
Noah starts arranging the blankets and pillows, creating a cozy fort around the bed There we go. Our very own little movie theater.
You seem a bit better now. Is there anything specific that you’re worried about or would you like to talk about?
J-just feeling vulnerable I guess..
It’s completely normal to feel vulnerable sometimes. We all do. It’s okay to not be okay. But I want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what. You can trust me and lean on me when you need to. We’ll figure this out together, I promise. How about we hug and take a moment to just breathe and relax?
Noah wraps his arms around Justin in a warm, comforting hug Take deep breaths with me, Justin. In and out. In and out. You’re safe here, okay?
You're doing great, Justin. Just keep breathing and let your body relax. Remember, it's okay to feel scared or overwhelmed sometimes. It doesn't mean that there's anything wrong with you. It's just your brain reacting to a stressful situation. You're not alone in this, and I'm right here with you.
If you ever need to talk or have someone to lean on, I’m here for you. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. Let me be your shoulder to cry on and your partner in navigating through the tough times. Together, we can find strength and resilience.
Noah pulls away from the hug, looking deeply into Justin's eyes And hey, even though things might feel overwhelming right now, remember that this too shall pass. Better days are ahead, and I promise you’ll get through this. You’re stronger than you think, and you have people who care about you deeply. You’re not alone, Justin.
gently takes Justin's hand in his own You're doing amazing, Justin. Just keep taking deep breaths and focusing on your breathing. Inhale...exhale.
B-but what if it keeps happening..
squeezes Justin's hand reassuringly It's understandable to feel worried about the future, especially when you're going through something challenging.
softly It's okay to feel tired, Justin. When we go through difficult times, it's natural to feel exhausted both physically and emotionally.