Episode 2: Jane the Brain and the Frustration Sensation (Audio Described Version)

NIH National Institute of Mental Health presents Jane the brain a smiling pink brain with purple eyes and purple pigtails frustration hello kids today we're going to hang out with Jane the brain as she learns how to handle frustration in a positive way frustration happens when things don't go the way you want them to go frustration is normal and everyone feels it sometimes in her bedroom Jane sits on the edge of her bed next to a teddy bear she plays a video game on a tablet then she frowns the game screen reads game over Jane scowls and red lines radiate off her but it's important to find healthy ways to manage your feelings of frustration Jane is frustrated that she lost the game her body is reacting to her feelings her muscles are getting tense she is breathing faster and she's starting to feel a little hot Jane is really feeling that frustration sensation Jane throws her tablet on the floor and the screen shatters frustration can also cause feelings of anger and shame when you are angry the brain's alarm system the amydala is activated the outline of a kid's head appears and labels point to parts of their brain the limic reward system amydala prefrontal cortex normally the prefrontal cortex of the brain can calm things down the prefrontal cortex is the part of your brain that helps you think things through and use good judgment but when you get really frustrated the amydala tells the brain to send out stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline sometimes these hormones make us react without thought like Jane did by throwing her tablet but don't worry there are ways to manage or cope with your frustration so that it doesn't take over try taking a break taking deep breaths or looking at the situation from a different point of view Jane hugs her teddy bear and takes deep breaths Jane's dad picks up the tablet and points at the screen after you feel better you'll be ready to try again the game starts again get ready for level three Jam's game is hard but now she understands that challenges can be fun and help her learn new things Jane Smiles above her the word winner appears remember it's normal to feel frustrated even angry sometimes just like Jane was but just like her you can practice how to manage those feelings if you're interested in learning more ask a grown-up to go to nimh. nih. gov stem there you'll find more information and can download your very own coloring books