COPING SKILLS
Name ONE healthy coping skill you could use when you're stressed.
Deep breathing, walking, music, talking to someone, grounding, exercise, journaling, taking appropriate space, etc.
What should you do while someone else is speaking?
Listen/pay attention.
You spill something on the floor. What's the responsible thing to do?
Clean it up/address it safely.
You're going to be late for work. What's one thing you should do?
Notify the appropriate supervisor/workplace according to policy.
True or False: Asking for help means you're weak.
FALSE.
You're getting frustrated during a disagreement. Name something you could do BEFORE responding.
Pause, breathe, walk away appropriately, count, think before speaking, etc.
You don't understand what someone told you. What's better: pretend you understand or ask for clarification?
Ask for clarification.
You have an appointment at 2:00 PM and several chores to complete. What skill can help you make sure you don't miss your appointment?
Planning/time management.
Your supervisor gives you instructions that you don't understand. What should you do?
Ask for clarification.
Name ONE person who might appropriately be part of someone's recovery support system.
Family/friend, counselor, therapist, psychiatrist, doctor, case manager, peer support, treatment professional, etc.
True or False: A coping skill is only working if it makes the uncomfortable feeling completely disappear.
FALSE.
Teaching point: Coping can help you manage an emotion without necessarily eliminating it.
Turn this into a more respectful statement:
“YOU NEVER LISTEN TO ME!”
“I don't feel heard when I'm speaking.”
“Can I finish what I was saying?”
“I'd like a chance to explain.”
You have $30 left until Friday. You want takeout, but you still need transportation. Which should you prioritize?
Transportation/essential need.
You finish your assignment early. What's a professional next step?
Check your work and/or ask the appropriate person what needs to be done next.
You have a question about your medication. Who would be more appropriate to ask: a friend or a qualified healthcare professional involved in your medication care?
Appropriate healthcare professional.
You tried your usual coping skill, but you're still overwhelmed. What's a healthy next step?
Try another coping strategy and/or seek appropriate support.
Someone says something that bothers you. What's one reason it might be helpful to clarify what they meant before reacting?
You may have misunderstood them/made an assumption.
You're at the grocery store and an item you planned to buy costs much more than expected. Name TWO reasonable options.
Find a cheaper alternative, skip it if nonessential, adjust another purchase, check another store later, revise budget, etc.
You realize you made a mistake on an assignment. What's generally better: hide it or address it?
Address/report it appropriately and work toward correcting it.
Why might it be a problem to depend on ONE person for ALL of your support?
Different needs require different resources/supports; one person may not always be available or qualified to address every need.
What's wrong with this statement?
“Someone made me angry, so I couldn't control what I did next.”
Feelings can be triggered by situations, but we remain responsible for how we respond.
Two people disagree. One person stays calm but continues communicating their needs clearly and respectfully. What communication style are they using?
Assertive communication.
You have three responsibilities:
-Laundry
-Grocery shopping
-Appointment at 1:00 PM
How would you decide what order to complete them?
Prioritize the time-sensitive appointment, then plan flexible responsibilities around it.
Teaching point:
Important + time-sensitive responsibilities usually come before flexible tasks.
Your supervisor gives you constructive feedback that you don't agree with. Give a professional response.
Accept:
“Thank you for letting me know. Can you explain what you'd like me to do differently?”
Or another calm, respectful response.
Teaching point: Receiving feedback without becoming defensive is a workplace skill.
What's the difference between independence and doing everything alone?
Independence includes managing responsibilities and making decisions, while also recognizing when help is needed and appropriately using available supports.