Coping Skills

Write in a journal

Listen to music that matches your mood

Use positive self-talk

Be creative, draw, paint, or color

Read inspiring quotes

Identify and challenge negative thoughts

Create a gratitude list

Write 3 positive things about your day

Identify 5 positive traits

Think about outcomes of potential choices

Talk to a counselor or mentor

Name how you feel

Write 5 positive affirmations

Walk or run outside (Kids, bring a trusted adult)

Do stretching exercises

Do a favorite sport or activity

Dance or play music

Squeeze a stress ball

Take a bath or shower

Use progressive muscle relaxation

Get enough sleep and rest

Drink water

Practice deep breathing

Eat a healthy meal or snack

Organize a small area

Spend time with family or friends

Talk to a family member or trusted friend

Set healthy boundaries with others

Compliment someone

Do a random act of kindness

Share a funny joke or meme with a friend

Play a board game or work on a puzzle

Try a new hobby or skill

Learn something new

Visualize a peaceful place or happy memory

Take a screen and social media break

Make a to-do list

Break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps

Name a thing that you see, smell, taste, hear, and feel

Write down stressors and rip up the paper

Use humor to reframe challenges

Celebrate small wins and positive moments

Play a video game in moderation

Spend time with pets or nature

Plan a fun activity

Daydream about future goals or plans

Watch a funny video

Read a story