Coping Skills

There are many techniques you can use to help yourself when your feelings begin to overwhelm you. Below are some techniques to help you get started. On this page, you can also find links to help you learn and use some of the skills listed.

Try some of these techniques:

Breathing Techniques (See below for some easy breathing techniques)
Counting to 10 (or 100)
Think of happy things, like your favorite memory or place to visit
Positive self-talk such as “I can do this.”, “I will be OK.”, “I can try again.”
Imagery/Visualization
Give yourself a compliment
Yoga
Mindfulness (Check out the Mindfulness Exercises link above)
Exercise (i.e. ride a bike, go for a walk)
Meditating (Check out the Calm Meditation Link above)
Muscle relaxation techniques (Click the link below for a sample script)
Write about it
Talk about it/Name the feeling
Use an “I feel” statement (I feel... when you... please...)
Use a stress ball, play-doh, thinking putty
Color, doodle or draw
Read
Find a quiet, comfortable spot to rest
Use a snow globe or calming jar (Ideas for how to make your own can be found below)
Listen to music
Ask for help
Hug someone or a stuffed animal
Do something you love
Play with a pet
Think about or watch something that makes you laugh
Take a break
Think about things you are grateful for (check out the Gratitude Link above)