Netflix, Sheepskin Blankets and Hot Apple Cider

It's starting to feel like Fall, guys. This is my favorite time of year, by far. Not only is it bonfire, hoodie and football season, but also apple cider, warm blankets and Netflix season. Those are some of my favorite ways to cope with my anxiety and other things. The warm blankets help me feel comforted and protected. The Netflix helps distract my constantly worrisome thoughts. The warm drinks help me feel relaxed and regulated inside my body. It's all good.

Coping skills are huge and literally can be anything. They are so important while working through anxiety attacks, depression, literally any mental issue. I can't even begin to go into detail on every coping skill, though I can highlight a few I've personally used.

When Anxiety comes out to play, it's really hard to get my mind to realize I need to do something to distract myself. I'm stuck in this rut where all I can do is worry. Usually, I'll keep a fidget toy in my pocket. That'll help for awhile. After that kinda wears off, I'll try some deep breathing (on my own, no app) or some positive talking. The deep breathing is great because it helps me ground myself. I'll point out a few things in my environment and keep taking full breaths.

Other options for coping skills I've found are many. Watching funny TV shows is good because it gets my mind back into a positive state. It encourages me to laugh, because just really who wouldn't laugh at some of the great comedy shows from the 90s or now? I also really enjoy just going outdoors. Most of the time, my anxiety likes to keep me in my room, in the dark, in bed, but that's no good. It helps, but only for awhile. Getting outside, getting fresh air, is one of the best cures I've found. Other than those two, I really love driving. Which is odd, because driving often gives me anxiety. But, with the right Spotify playlist and the right outside temperature for windows to be rolled down, it can really do the trick.

I'd love to go into more details as far as coping skills. However, I would like to do a Q&A post for my next entry. I'd like to know what kind of issues you guys are struggling with, what you'd like to see come from this blog and any other questions/comments you guys might have. With that being said, please comment on this post or shoot me a chat on the website or an email. All questions/comments can be anonymous if you choose.

Love, Aylin

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National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1- 800-799-7233

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255); www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Suicide Prevention, Awareness, and Support: www.suicide.org

Lifeline Crisis Chat: https://www.contact-usa.org/chat.html

Crisis Text Line: Text REASON to 741741 (free, confidential and 24/7)

Self-Harm Hotline: 1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8288)

Family Violence Helpline: 1-800-996-6228

Planned Parenthood Hotline: 1-800-230-PLAN (7526)

National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency: 1-800-622-2255

The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678678. Standard text messaging rates apply. Available 24/7/365. (Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning—LGBTQ—young people under 25.)

Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net

(The above resources are obtained from https://www.psycom.net/get-help-mental-health )