Okay, this post will be to simply explain one of the things I do in these situations of high stress and anxiety. My advice shouldn't be taken as the be all and end all, as I am NOT a professional.
My psychologist gave me the idea to make a "safe box", "feel good box", "self care box", or what ever you wish to call it. The point of this box is that when you feel a panic attack coming on or are experiencing painful memories you open the box and use what is inside to make yourself feel okay again.
*This is not meant to stop the negative feelings as doing so is unhealthy and you need to learn to recover in a safe and healthy manner. *
My box is more of a basket and contains:
A teddy from my grandparents house
A small pink teddy from my Nannie (other grandma)
3 books from my childhood that hold happy memories
Tea bags
Slime, stress balls and other sensory items
List of contact numbers
A note book with a textured cover
One coloured pen (to make it more fun)
Photos of happy times in my life
My "safety plan"
Notes I have got from people
A snow globe (mine is Sponge Bob)
Things that I have accomplished (in a list)
Kinetic sand that I made myself
Fidget spinner
My favourite CD
Fidget cube
A SAFE dose of headache medication
Small shiny rocks from my boyfriend
And a few small bits and bobs
You can add or remove what ever you feel is better for you.
I use to use this box everyday and now that I am feeling a lot better in myself I feel I should share the idea for whoever may need that extra happiness in their life. Another good thing is that you can make this box of any size!
I have a travel size that I keep in a pencil case so that if I experience anything negative I have access to everything I could need.
I hope you got some ideas from this post and that you have an amazing day!
Jen x
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