Positive statements encourage us and help us to cope through distressing times. We can say these encouraging words to ourselves, and be our own personal coach.
We have all lived through some distressing times and we can use those experiences to encourage us through current difficulties. Examples of coping thoughts might be:
- Stop, and breathe, I can do this
- This will pass
- I can be anxious/angry/sad and still deal with this
- I have done this before, and I can do it again
- This feels bad, it’s a normal body reaction – it will pass
- This feels bad, and feelings are very often wrong
- These are just feeling, they will go away
- This won’t last forever
- Short term pain for long term gain
- I can feel bad and still choose to take a new and healthy direction
- I don’t need to rush, I can take things slowly
- I have survived before, I will survive now
- I feel this way because of my past experiences, but I am safe right now
- It’s OK to feel this way, it’s a normal reaction
- Right now, I am not in danger. Right now, I am safe.
- My mind is not always my friend
- Thoughts are just thoughts – they’re not necessarily true or factual
- This is difficult and uncomfortable, but it’s only temporary
- I can use my coping skills and get through this
- I can learn from this and it will be easier next time
It helps to write down a coping thought or positive statement for each difficult or distressing situation. Something you can tell yourself that will help you get through. Write them down on a piece of card and carry it in your pocket, wallet handbag etc to help remind you.
Jenn has ADHD 