EMOTIONAL SAFETY PLAN

No matter what kind(s) of abuse you are experiencing, you are likely to feel exhausted and emotionally drained. Here are ways to conserve your energy and support yourself:

• Attend as many group or individual counselling sessions as you can.
• Join other support groups to gain support and strengthen your relationships with people.
• Become involved in community activities to reduce feelings of isolation.
• Take a part-time job to reduce isolation and improve finances.
• Enroll in school to increase your skills.
• Take time to read, meditate, play music, etc.
• Spend time with people who make you feel good and provide support.
• Take part in social activities, e.g. movie, dinner, exercise.
• Take care of your sleep and nutritional needs.
• Keep a personal journal to write about your feelings, especially when you are feeling low or vulnerable. Keep it in a safe place or burn it.
• Take time to prepare yourself emotionally before entering stressful situations such as talking with your partner, meeting with lawyers or attending court.
• Try not to overbook yourself; limit yourself to one appointment per day to reduce stress.
• Be creative and do whatever makes you feel good.
• Write something positive about yourself everyday; create your own personal affirmations.
• Don’t find comfort in excessive use of alcohol or food; it only increases depression.
• Avoid excessive shopping and impulse buying.
• Join a health club or start an exercise program. It will increase your energy level and well-being.
• It’s OK to feel angry but find positive and constructive ways to express your anger.
• Remember you are the most important person to take care of right now.