Emotional First Aid- What You Can Do When You Start To Feel Low In Spirits

Emotional First Aid- What You Can Do When You Start To Feel Bad






Step outside or open a window.

Monitor your moods on a daily basis and rate ‘feeling bad’ on a scale from 1 to 10. Take notice when you feel worse than other times and process the reasons why. Make plans to change how you react to these mood patterns.

Do not allow yourself to go on an emotional downward spiral. When you start to feel bad, do not let it have snowball effect. Recognize it for what it is and do not let your thoughts take you further down. Tell yourself that you are having a difficult time but that it will not keep you down and that you will overcome it.

Implement a positive and / or productive distraction when you start to feel low in spirits.

Find meaning in loss or hard times. Learn from them and use them to help others and to grow stronger.

Demonstrate self- care. Get sunshine and fresh air. Brisk walk outside. Read scripture. Rest. Eat healthy. Drink water. Think of a peaceful place in your mind. Take slow deep breaths.

Talk to someone who cares and who you trust.

Re-visit in your mind--your passions and purpose in life.

Count your blessings.

Pray. God cares about every detail of your life. 

Take a bath by candle light.

Listen to Christian / Worship music.  

Journal about why / where you believe your sadness is coming from.

Remember that emotional pain is temporary.

Demonstrate positive self-talk about yourself and your situation. 

Let go of what you do not have control over.

Forgive yourself and others. 

Let go of guilt and shame.

Choose JOY!

                  Seek counseling and/ or a support group.

  
                          By Diane Gammon MS

Clinical Mental Health Counselor

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