"Inside Out 2": A Journey Through Emotions and Mental Health

At Thrive for Life Counseling, we believe in the power of storytelling to illuminate the intricacies of mental health. Pixar’s "Inside Out 2" does just that, providing a poignant, yet entertaining exploration of our inner emotional world. This sequel takes viewers on a journey through the mind of an adolescent, Riley, as she navigates the complexities of growing up. The film’s portrayal of emotions and mental health aligns beautifully with therapeutic principles, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the human psyche.

Favorite Quotes and Their Implications

"Inside Out 2" is filled with memorable quotes that resonate deeply with both children and adults. Here are a few favorites from Wendy Galyen (Thrive's founder) and her daughter after they watched the movie together at the local IMAX theater, along with their therapeutic implications:

1. "It's okay to feel sad sometimes. It's a part of life." - Sadness

   • Therapeutic Insight: This quote emphasizes the importance of accepting all emotions, including sadness. In therapy, we encourage clients to embrace their feelings rather than suppress them, as acknowledging our emotions is the first step towards healing.

2. "We can't always control what happens, but we can control how we react." - Joy

   • Therapeutic Insight: This quote reflects a core principle of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing our reactions to events rather than trying to control the events themselves. It’s a powerful reminder of our agency in managing our emotional responses.

3. "Anxiety is trying to protect you, but sometimes it overreacts." - Anxiety

   • Therapeutic Insight: Understanding that anxiety is a natural response designed to keep us safe can be liberating. However, when it becomes overwhelming, it can hinder our daily lives. Therapy helps individuals learn how to manage their anxiety effectively.

The Movie's Application to Therapy

"Inside Out 2" serves as a valuable tool in therapy, especially for younger clients. The characters personify different emotions, making it easier for children to identify and articulate their feelings. The movie also normalizes experiencing a wide range of emotions, promoting emotional intelligence and resilience.

For therapists, the film can be used as a conversation starter, helping clients to explore their emotional landscape in a non-threatening way. It can also be a reference point for discussing complex topics such as emotional regulation, coping strategies, and the impact of life changes on mental health.

Wendy Galyen and Her Daughter's Experience

Wendy Galyen, our founder and lead psychotherapist, attended the premiere of "Inside Out 2" with her daughter. The experience was both heartwarming and enlightening for them. "Watching 'Inside Out 2' with my daughter was a wonderful opportunity to discuss emotions and mental health in a way that was engaging and accessible," Wendy shared. "It opened up a dialogue about our own feelings and how we handle them."

Wendy's daughter particularly loved the new character introduced in the sequel, Anxiety. "Mom, Anxiety is just like what we talk about, right?" she asked, making an immediate connection between the movie and the conversations they’ve had. This character's inclusion highlights the increasing awareness and understanding of mental health and the role of anxiety in today's society.

Conclusion

"Inside Out 2" is more than just a movie; it's a celebration of our emotional lives. At Thrive for Life Counseling, we encourage you to watch this film with your loved ones and use it as an opportunity to talk about mental health. As Wendy Galyen and her daughter experienced, it’s a powerful way to connect, understand, and support each other on our emotional journeys.

Remember, it's okay to feel. And if those feelings become overwhelming, we’re here to help you navigate them!