Coping Mechanisms
This skill is where you reach out to someone safe.
Ask for help.
his skill is where you recognize that in any situation, you have choices.
List your options.
This skill is where you recognize your use of substances as an attempt to self-medicate.
Link PTSD and substance abuse.
This skill is where you remind yourself what you are living for: children? love? truth? equity?
Create meaning in life.
This skill is where you ask others if your negative core belief is accurate.
Ask others.
This skill is where you create a mental picture that helps you to feel different (remember a safe place).
Imagine – visualize.
This skill is where you try another way if one way doesn’t work.
If one way doesn’t work, try another.
This skill is where you notice the exact moment when you chose a substance.
Notice the choice point.
This skill is where you set an action plan: Be specific, set a deadline, and let others know about it.
Set an action plan.
This skill is where you lean on community resources! They can be a source of great support.
Reach out to community resources.
This skill is where you distract, walk away, change the channel.
Detach from emotional pain.
This skill is where you try choosing the best solution you can right now; don’t wait.
Make a decision.
This skill is where you recognize the price of substance abuse in your life.
Notice the cost.
This skill is where you promise yourself to do what’s right to help your recovery.
Make a commitment.
This skill is where you tell people what you need.
Ask others to support your recovery.
This skill is where you use self-talk to help in difficult times.
Talk yourself through it.
This skill is where you take the time to think ahead—it’s the opposite of impulsivity.
Plan it out.
This skill is where you try to notice and understand your reenactments.
Observe the repeating patterns.
This skill is where you do what you can to make today better; don’t get overwhelmed by the past or future.
Focus on now.
This skill is where you say what you really think; you’ll feel closer to others (but only do this with safe people).
Say what you really think.
This skill is where you review a negative event: What can you do differently next time?
Replay the scene.
This skill is where you make it happen by setting a date.
Set a deadline.
This skill is where you seek wisdom that can help you next time.
Learn from experience.
This skill is where you create positive addictions: Examples: sports, hobbies, AA . . .
Replace destructive activities.
This skill is where you list the aspects of your life you do have control of (e.g., job, friends . . .).
Notice what you can control.