Capsized

one day it won’t be so bad

and I won’t settle for capsizing

or letting water fill my lungs

and I won’t sit and debate

if they’re half full or half empty

just to give myself time

to meet you at the bottom

right where you’re waiting for me

I swear, one day

I won’t let myself

drown and sink

just to anchor myself where you are

Coping 101

Not in any particular order:

  • Tell yourself the things you like about yourself
  • Breathe
  • Scream (into a pillow, or not)
  • Cry
  • Take a shower or a bath
  • Light a candle or incense
  • Use essential oils
  • Do a face mask
  • Listen to music
  • Write
  • Sing
  • Color/draw/paint
  • Craft
  • Watch tv or a movie
  • Take a nap
  • Stretch or do yoga
  • Practice meditation
  • Go for a walk or a run
  • Exercise in general
  • Drink water
  • Eat a snack
  • Enjoy a hot cup of tea or cocoa
  • Cook/bake
  • Do origami
  • Do a puzzle
  • Play a game
  • Call or text a friend
  • Go for a drive
  • Visit family or friends
  • Hug a pillow, stuffed animal, or person
  • Dance
  • Read a book
  • Go swimming
  • Play a sport
  • Go on an adventure or play outside
  • Clean — ONLY if necessary and will help not hurt your anxiety and OCD
  • Give a gift — make someone else happy
  • Treat yourself