College Counsellor

HALTS!

The following is from Dr Justin Coulson’s One-Minute Wellbeing and is used with permission. Find out more at www.happyfamilies.com.au

I’m sure you often encounter students or young people who are oppositional or defiant. It’s essential to understand that these behaviours can be driven by underlying needs and emotions.

Consider the acronym “HALTS” to identify the root causes of such behaviours. 

Young people frequently act out when they are:

Hungry,

Angry (or frustrated),

Lonely (seeking attention),

Tired, or

Stressed (including scared or sad).

When you notice a student or young person displaying challenging behaviours, watch for these signals.

Recognising these triggers can help you respond with empathy and support. Use these

moments as opportunities to reconnect with your students. Instead of immediately

setting limits and imposing discipline while they are emotional, focus on calming them

first.

Create a safe and supportive environment where they feel understood and valued. Once

they are calm, you can address the issue more effectively and teach them appropriate

ways to cope and behave. By responding to their underlying needs and emotions,

you can help them develop better self-regulation and resilience. This approach not

only improves their behaviour but also strengthens your relationship with them and

promotes a positive classroom atmosphere.

Let’s talk about it!

▶ What happens to you when you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired, or Stressed?

Does it impact your behaviour to others?