Coping Strategy Chart
Use this chart when you feel upset or overwhelmed. Pick one strategy to try when you notice a trigger.
| Icon | Strategy | How To Use It |
|---|---|---|
| 🧘♂️😮💨 | Take 3 Deep Breaths 🧘♀️😮💨 | 1. Inhale slowly for 3 seconds. 2. Hold for 1 second. 3. Exhale slowly for 3 seconds. |
| ✋🖐️ | Count to 5 ✋🖐️ | 1. Stop and pause. 2. Count “1-2-3-4-5” in your head. 3. Notice how you feel. |
| 🤸♂️🦵 | Stretch or Move 🤸♂️🦵 | 1. Stand up or shift in your seat. 2. Stretch arms and legs. 3. Shake out your hands. |
| 🗣️💬 | Use Calm Words 🗣️💬 | 1. Say “I feel ____.” 2. Explain what upset you. 3. Ask for what you need. |
| 🛑🚪 | Ask for a Break 🛑🚪 | 1. Quietly tell the teacher “May I have a break?” 2. Step aside calmly. 3. Take deep breaths. |
Full poster available: Coping Strategies Chart