Resilience and self-esteem are critical components of mental well-being, especially for today's youth who face unprecedented challenges such as body image issues, cyberbullying, and psychological stress. Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, a renowned psychologist and filmmaker, recently discussed these issues with award-winning children's book author Julia Cook on her 'Resilience and Self Esteem' podcast.
Julia Cook, known for her work in children's literature and parenting, has been featured in prominent publications including Parent's Magazine, The New Yorker, and The Huffington Post. Her background in elementary school counseling and her experience as a professional school counselor have significantly influenced her writing, which aims to help children navigate complex emotional landscapes.
Dr. Holstein highlighted the importance of Cook's approach, stating, "Julia understands the psychological stresses that kids are under and weaves those stresses into her books in ways that help the children find the courage to go beyond their own moods and disappointments as they read the books." This perspective underscores the necessity of providing young people with tools to build resilience and self-esteem, enabling them to face life's challenges with confidence and emotional strength.
Dr. Holstein has long been an advocate for innovative approaches to mental health. Her work includes a variety of media aimed at engaging young minds, such as her bestselling workbook 'Looking Good, Feeling Good,' which achieved top status in the Teen and Young Adult Self Esteem eBooks category. The workbook encourages girls to explore their creative talents and develop resilience through activities like writing, drawing, and even creating selfie films.
In addition to her podcast, Dr. Holstein has announced a new series of selfie films designed to address issues of self-esteem and resilience. These films, available on platforms like Vimeo and Roku, feature young girls sharing their experiences with love, family, and personal growth. Titles include 'The Truth - A Short Film,' 'Falling In Love - A Coming Of Age Selfie Film,' and 'Lockdown,' which depicts the emotional responses of three teens during a school lockdown.
Dr. Holstein's multifaceted approach to positive psychology also includes award-winning books, stage plays, and TED-style talks. Her goal is to bring together parents, educators, and the media to create meaningful change in the lives of young people who are struggling with anxiety and a sense of hopelessness.
Julia Cook's participation in the podcast series is a testament to the power of storytelling in addressing mental health issues. As Dr. Holstein noted, "A good book that accepts a girl where she is and helps her move forward is a major source of mental health care." By featuring authors like Cook, Dr. Holstein aims to provide young readers with relatable and inspiring content that can help them build resilience and self-esteem.
For more information on Dr. Holstein's work and her new podcast series, visit https://www.enchantedself.com. The selfie film series can be accessed at https://vimeo.com/showcase/10863899 and on the Roku channel, The Enchanted Self Presents.
