What is in your Mental Health Toolkit

What is in your mental health emergency toolkit?

We all face difficult days it’s simply part of life. What helps me during those emotional moments is keeping a few small items close by, tucked into my bag or desk drawer, ready for those “just in case” times. Having them nearby brings me comfort.

My list works for me, but yours should be personal filled with whatever soothes, calms, or grounds you.

1. I carry a notepad and pen to write out my thoughts. I know some people will use their notes section on their phone but going old school, works best for me. It’s a small notepad that fits in my pocketbook and I even have another one in my car.

2. Snack – I have an illness that causes me swallowing issues so I always want to make sure I have something I can eat so I don’t get “Hangry” and so when my blood sugar drops, I’m well prepared. Also, chewing helps reduce nervous/worry so it’s good to have something to eat or gum just to help take the edge off.

3.Water is a must for me – if I get stressed/anxious, my throat goes dry and I get globus. For others, it goes straight to their chest area but for me, it’s my throat. Having water helps me swallow and relieve the globus.

4. Pictures- most of us have our phones with us wherever we go. For me, I keep happy pictures/memoires and pictures of quotes that are inspiring for those moments I need a boost.  The biggest boost of happiness for me is pictures of my dog. That always puts a smile on my face.

5. Music- if you want to shift a bad mood into a better mood, music can do that for you. On your phone, download some music that lifts you up, makes you feel good or pumps you up!! You can also put nature sounds on if that works better – waterfall, the ocean, thunderstorm, etc.

What is in your kit?

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