Yesterday I was discussing self harming behaviors of a teenager with some other ladies in an online forum and it got me thinking about coping skills – or things we do to help release our emotions.

Please note: I am not a professional. These are just some ideas to help express yourself and release pent up emotions.

Coping Skills for Kids

Draw/Color

Outdoor play

Listen to music

Play music

Write/Journal

Hug a favorite stuffed animal

Scream into a pillow

Hugs

Have one on one time with a loved one

Have a play date

Watch favorite TV show or movie

Play a video game

Talk to a family member or friend

Take a nap

Play a game

Do a puzzle

Coping Skills for Adults

Draw

Exercise

Walk/Jog

Listen to music

Play music

Write/Journal/Blog

Hug someone

Scream

Surround yourself with friends

Watch TV or a movie

Play video games

Talk to a family member or friend

Take a nap

Craft

Meditate

Cry (it’s okay, sometimes we feel better after a good cry)

Do a puzzle (jigsaw, word search, crossword, etc.)

What are your go-to coping skills?