Coping Skills
Name a breathing technique used to reduce anxiety
Box breathing / deep breathing
“Everyone is judging me” — thought or fact?
Thought
What part of the brain triggers fear?
Amygdala
What is one word you would use to describe anxiety?
worry, fear, stress, overthinking, nervous
You feel anxious in a crowded store — what do you do?
What grounding technique uses the five senses?
5-4-3-2-1
What is it called when we assume the worst-case scenario?
Catastrophizing
What happens to your breathing during anxiety?
It becomes faster/shallow
Name one way anxiety shows up in your life
racing thoughts, avoidance, irritability, sleep issues
You can’t stop overthinking at night — what helps?
What is one healthy distraction?
Watching TV, calling a friend, cleaning, etc.
True or False: Thoughts are always facts
False
What system is activated during anxiety (fight or flight)?
Sympathetic nervous system
Is anxiety always bad? Why or why not?
No — it can motivate, protect, increase awareness
You feel judged by others — what’s one way to cope?
What is one movement-based coping skill?
Walking, stretching, exercise
What is a healthier replacement for “I can’t handle this”?
“I can get through this” / similar
What helps calm the body after anxiety?
Deep breathing / relaxation
What’s the difference between stress vs. anxiety?
You want to avoid something — what could you do instead?
What is a coping skill you can use in public without anyone noticing?
Breathing, grounding, self-talk
What skill helps challenge negative thinking?
Cognitive restructuring / reframing
Why does your heart race during anxiety?
Body preparing for danger
Share a time anxiety actually helped you
helped prepare, stay alert, avoid danger
You feel a panic attack coming — what do you do?