SPOOKY FEELINGS
When you feel scared or angry, what’s one coping skill you can use to calm your “inner monster”?
Deep breathing or counting to 10
What emotion might feel like your “heart is racing” and your “stomach is tight”?
Anxiety
What’s a trigger?
Something that reminds you of a stressful or upsetting memory
What does “mindful” mean?
Paying attention to the present moment without judging it
What does “self-care” mean?
Taking care of your mind and body
What is something you can do with your hands to distract yourself when you feel nervous?
Draw, squeeze a stress ball, or write
What emotion can feel like a volcano ready to erupt?
Anger
Name one physical sign that you might be triggered.
Heart beating fast, sweaty palms, tense muscles
What’s one mindful way to eat Halloween candy?
Eat slowly and notice the taste, smell, and texture
Name one self-care activity you can do at home.
Take a bath, read, rest, play with a pet, etc
Name one coping skill that involves movement.
Go for a walk, dance, or stretch
What emotion might make you want to hide under a blanket like a ghost?
Fear
What can you say to yourself when you notice a trigger?
“I’m safe right now” or “This is just a memory”
Name one way you can use your five senses to calm down.
Describe what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell
What’s one healthy “treat” that’s not candy?
Time with friends, music, or nature
When your thoughts are racing, what can you do to slow them down?
Practice grounding or mindfulness (5-4-3-2-1 technique)
What are “mixed emotions”?
Feeling more than one feeling at the same time
How can you let a trusted adult know you’re feeling triggered?
Tell them directly or use a signal/word you agreed on
What’s one breathing technique that helps calm your body?
Box breathing (inhale-hold-exhale-hold)
Why is sleep important for your emotional health?
It helps your brain and body recharge
What’s a “coping plan” or "coping toolbox" and why do people make one?
A plan that lists strategies to use when emotions get hard to manage
How can naming your emotion help you calm down faster?
It helps you understand and manage what you’re feeling
What’s one healthy way to respond when something triggers you?
Take deep breaths, leave the room, or talk to someone safe
What’s the purpose of mindfulness in therapy?
To help manage emotions, reduce anxiety, and increase focus
What’s your own personal “self-care spell” you can use when feeling down?
(Open response — encourage creativity!)