DEPRESSION
a mental health disorder marked by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant difficulty in daily life
"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't."
- John Green
Different Coping Skills
DISTRACTION
taking your mind off the problem for a while
examples: reading, music, art, crafts, puzzles, video games, movies, journaling
SELF-SOOTHING
comforting yourself through your senses
1. something to touch (ex: stress ball)
2. something to hear (ex: music)
3. something to see (ex: happy picture)
4. something to taste (ex: mints)
5. something to smell (ex: lotion)
MINDFULNESS
tools for grounding yourself in the current moment
examples: meditation, breathing exercises, grounding object like a rock
EMOTIONAL AWARENESS
tools for identifying and expressing your feelings
examples: list or chart of emotions, a journal, writing supplies, art supplies
OPPOSITE ACTION
doing something that is the opposite of your urge, something that's consistent with a more positive emotion
1. affirmations and inspiration (drawing or looking at motivational quotes/pics)
2. something funny or cheerful (funny movies, youtube video, tv show)
CRISIS PLAN
contact info for supports and resources for when coping skills aren't enough
include: family, friends, therapist, psychiatrist, hotline, ER, 911
Try a gratitude journal.
It can help you focus on the positives in life and put things in perspective. It is not meant to replace mental health treatment or therapy, but it's a start!
