Taking Care Of My Emotional Well-Being

I realize that I have been through a lot and I may be feeling exhausted and emotionally drained. I know that building a new life free of violence takes a great deal of courage and requires a lot of energy.

Here are some things I can do to take care of my health.

I may choose as many of these options as I feel comfortable doing.

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

I will review and revise the sections of the safety plan that apply to me every __________________ to make sure I am on track.