Thought Traps
You think, “Everyone is staring at me.”
What kind of thought is this?
Your heart is beating fast and your hands feel sweaty
What is FEELING NERVOUS?
You studied, but you still failed a quiz and feel like crying or yelling.
What is a way to respond?
You feel mad during a game. You stop and breathe instead of yelling
What is... self-control?
You feel restless and can’t sit still.
What movement-based coping skill could help?
After one bad grade, you think, “I’m terrible at school.”
What is a more helpful thought?
Your face feels hot and your fists are tight
What is ..FEELING ANGRY?
A friend ignores your text all day and you feel upset.
What emotions might you be feeling?
You’re annoyed and feel like snapping at someone who didn’t mean to upset you.
What would you do to pause before reacting?
You feel overwhelmed during class.
What is a quiet coping strategy you could use?
You assume a friend is mad at you without asking.
What could you do instead of assuming?
Your stomach feels tight before a big test
What is....STRESS?
You get blamed for something you didn’t do and your chest feels tight.
What feeling is showing up first?
You walk away when an argument is getting heated
What is..... taking space?
You’re feeling sad at night and can’t sleep.
What is one healthy thing you could try?
You think, “This will never get better.”
What could you say back to that thought?
You feel tired, heavy, and want to be alone
What is...SADNESS?
You’re excited, but also nervous before a big game or performance.
What two emotions can exist at the same time?
You feel overwhelmed and ask a teacher for help
What is... using support?
You feel angry but can’t leave the room.
What coping skill works without moving away?
A thought makes your feelings feel bigger and harder to handle.
What skill can help with this?
You’re smiling without trying and feel light inside
What is..HAPPINESS?
Someone laughs when you make a mistake in class.
What feelings might come up, and what could help in the moment?
You notice your feelings before reacting
What is... emotional awareness?
Nothing seems to be working and emotions are still intense.
Who could you reach out to for help?