The fall season can bring positive feelings, but for some they can bring reminders of traumatic experiences. While many people have a bag or two packed for a fire, flood, or earthquake, are we making sure we have things packed for our mental health and well being? 

Here are some things you can do to help you prepare your emotional “go bag”:

Immediately after an emotional event: Reestablish your sense of safety, connect with trusted loved ones, and utilize familiar ways to regain hope; such as self-care and any other tool you’ve used before. Remember, anything a person can do to help themselves and others move towards safety, calm, or staying connected to others is helpful. Remember that there are no “quick fixes” or “magic pill.”

In preparation for your long term needs: Continue with self care, continue to move towards a sense of safety, limit media watching or reading, schedule positive activities, managing emotions: music, exercise, practice breathing strategies such as Box Breathing, journal, or talk with others.

Remember that there is “no right or wrong way” to deal with natural disasters or other traumatic events. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself as you find ways to help yourself cope.