First-aid box for emotions

First-Aid Box for Emotions

In today’s world of high stress, we often need reminders to take care of our emotional needs. Making a first-aid box for times of depression will help you be prepared for those times when you have the blues.

Please note: if you are suicidal, please seek professional help!

Here are some suggestions, please feel free to add you suggestions to this list!

A Journal. As a teen, many of us had a journal. Writing helps us to allow our mind to go in different directions. So many times, when you give yourself the opportunity to slow down through writing, your own thoughts will reveal your best solutions. If you need a subject to get started, you can always count your blessings. Many times thinking about the advantages you have will change your perceptions. Being depressed is a result of your perceptions. Changing one thought can change your whole day.

Mementos! Make a box with a few of your favorite things. Mementos help us recall better times. Sometimes it is the soft touch of a stuffed toy or the smell of something that brings back your memories of good times. Pictures help us remember those people who connect with us on a personal level. Take pictures of bigger items, and make real copies of your pictures so you can hold them in your hands. There are many different kinds of mementos, but try to keep your box small.

Music! Your favorite songs will improve your mood. Songs from your childhood can bring a smile back to your face. Whatever music from your past, keep a copy of it. Remember to play your music when you are blue. Also, if the electricity goes out, have a printout of the lyrics. You can sing them and really put a smile on your face and everyone else. Music is powerful. Remember to use it!

Inspirational quotes and encouraging articles or books. We all have quotes we admire. Write them onto 3” x 5” cards and include them in your first-aid box. Make notes of inspiration from books you have read. Print off an encouraging article and keep it in your box. Any time you find something that gives you a lift, write it down and add it to your box. If you are religious, include Bible verses.

Candy? Be careful, foods can draw bugs. But individually wrapped candies could be added, in which the quick acting carbohydrates can give you a lift. Just don’t get carried away!

Contacts. Be sure to keep a written list of people you can call. Sometimes we lose track of people. It is important to reach out for help. It may be someone from your past. Keep their contact information in your first-aid box.

Our situation in the United States could change quickly. Nobody knows what is going to happen next. Bad storms could knock out the electricity for days. Earthquakes could change everything. It is always best to be prepared. Taking time now to consider your emotional needs will help you and your family. Others will appreciate your efforts too.