Thursday, August 28, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

What Brain Am I In? - The Blue Brain

by Sharon Ashman

Last fortnight, we met the Red Brain – the angry, reactive part that yells, hits, and melts down.
But what about when your child isn’t exploding – they’re withdrawing?

They’re quiet, teary, refusing to talk, or saying things like “I’m dumb,” “No one likes me,” or “I can’t do it.” That’s the Blue Brain.

The Blue Brain is our emotional brain. It’s where sadness, worry, and fear live. It’s where kids feel hurt but don’t know how to ask for help. Unlike the Red Brain, the Blue Brain doesn’t roar – it whispers. And because it’s quieter, it often gets missed.

Children stuck in Blue Brain mode might seem overly sensitive, avoidant, or flat – but underneath, they’re struggling with big feelings they don’t have the words for yet.

In counselling, I help children understand what’s going on inside and teach them how to name their feelings, ask for help, and build emotional resilience. We also work with parents to create safe, connected environments where kids feel seen and heard – even in their lowest moments.

If your child seems down, anxious, or overwhelmed, trust your instincts.

You don’t need to wait for things to “get really bad” to reach out.

Call 0418708214 today to book a counselling session that supports both you and your child.

Next fortnight: What’s the goal of it all? Let’s meet the calm, clever, super problem-solver, Green Brain.

Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych

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