1. Coloring Book

“It helps me escape my own mind for a little while.”

2. Journal and Pen

“Sometimes the best thing to do when you feel anxious, depressed or hopeless is to write.”

3. Stuffed Animal

“When I’m feeling rubbish, all I want to do is curl up in a ball, cry and cuddle something.”

4. Tea

“It helps to soothe my nerves after a long day of interacting with people.”

5. Fidget Toys

“It gives me something to occupy my hands with and something else to focus on.”

6. Essential Oils

“They help calm me down when I am anxious and lift my mood when I’m depressed.”

7. Notes to Self

“I write nice things to myself, the kinds of things I am not able to feel when I’m low.”

8. Headphones

“Not only does music help me, but tangling and untangling the earbuds help with my anxiety.”

9. Lotion

“The smell makes me feel so good. I just rub it in my hands with my eyes closed.”

When you live with a health condition like a mental illness, learning how to “self-soothe” can be beneficial in recovery.

Whether you make a full kit or stash a few calming objects in your car, remember its OK to stop and do what you need to do.