Hi there,

Wanting to find new ways to cope with difficult emotions is always positive. Everyone is different, so it can take time to find what works for you. Learning more about what’s leading to your feelings can be a big part of learning to manage them.

Working out how to calm yourself down or express things healthily can take time, but there are things you can do to make it easier:

• Keep a diary or journal
  Try to write about what’s happening when you feel overwhelmed or have a tantrum, even if it doesn’t feel connected. Writing things down can help you to see patterns and think about situations you might need more help in.
• Try new things
  Not everything will work for you, and that’s okay. Try looking for new or creative ideas to express yourself. We’ve got lots of ideas to be creative or find new ways to cope.
• Change your routine
  This could mean making sure you get enough sleep, that you’re eating healthily, or building exercise into your day. Trying to calm yourself down when you’re overwhelmed can often feel too much as well, so it can help to practice things like breathing exercises when things aren’t feeling too much.
• Talk about it
  Keep on sharing how you’re feeling, even when you’re angry. Talking about what’s happening can help you to feel less alone and more able to cope. Remember, our counsellors are always here to support you.

It’s natural to try to look for answers about what’s causing your feelings or behaviours, and that can be a good place to start. If your feelings are making it harder to live your life, then it’s important to get support. Getting help can come in lots of different forms. It can be useful to speak to someone you trust. If you’re concerned you have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD),you should speak to your GP to help you get the right support or advice.

Remember, things can change in the future and you’re not alone.

Take care,

Sam