I like how you use a scent that's not connected to your past to help you feel safe. I have SPD, and scent is the only thing that is intense enough to either trigger or dispel panic immediately. I buy cleaning products that one of my Group Homes used. I was in foster homes and group homes both before and after this specific one, but this one I felt safe in. I never felt safe before that home, or ever again after I turned 18 and had to move. Still, even though they are just cleaning products, I only smelled those ones there...when I feel out of control, I clean my house, and I remember that feeling of safety. It helps a lotCouragetoday wrote:Hi everyone,
I struggle with feeling safe as well in dark moments. I too use the wrapped up tight in a blanket with a stuffie technique! I also make a point to lay somewhere other than my bedroom as this feels safer to me.
I also gently ask myself to observe 10 breaths before doing or acting on anything and it amazes me how at times this helps calms things, even if only for a moment.
I also have been using essential oils. I especially love lavender. I have no ties to this from the past so as I am smelling it, I remind myself that I have to be safe, in the present, as this smell was not a part of my past. (I wear a small piece of jewelry that carries this scent).
Living with DID, sometimes I find it helpful to speak individually to each part, reminding each one that we are in the present, and safe. Or, I ask them if they would prefer to leave and go to their already established safe places.
I too have a list of strategies written down in a list on my phone so they are always on me. It's so easy to forget in a moment (or long moments) of struggles. I'd be lying if I said my strategies are especially effective- it doesn't make anything go away, but sometimes helps make it through the moment(s).
Thanks for the thread - always in need of different coping strategies and look forward to learning from each of you.
Helping yourself feel safe
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Re: Helping yourself feel safe
Last edited by Jonesy on Wed Jan 14, 2015 9:14 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: Helping yourself feel safe
Brokenbutterflywings- what a great strategy to use- I'm glad there is one scent from your past that elicits those memories and feelings of safety. I've been doing some reading about the power of scent and how it works in our brains and it's pretty darn amazing.
Take good care
Take good care
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Re: Helping yourself feel safe
ya I think its pretty cool too. It's crazy..our minds...when I heal, I want to do neonatal neuroscience. Just like my aunt said I was too stupid to be. I love brains lol
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Re: Helping yourself feel safe
Thank you Crow for finding this thread
You are important
Email: jonesy@isurvive.org
Email: jonesy@isurvive.org