Coping statements are positive thoughts based on reality, designed to stop negative thoughts that may be linked to anxiety. These thoughts won’t eliminate all fears, worries, and stress, but they can stabilize and balance intense feelings, especially for young minds navigating emotions and uncertainties.
The Anxiety Coping Statements handout shows young people a list of positive affirmations they can use whenever they feel anxious. It includes statements like “Whatever I do today is enough” and “I give myself permission to take breaks."
Using this handout not only helps kids and teens feel better about challenges but it also boosts their confidence and helps them deal with difficult emotions more healthily. For example, when trying a new hobby like learning to play an instrument, they can stay positive by repeating one of the phrases.
Parents and teachers can turn this into an engaging activity by making catchy tunes using some of the statements. This technique also encourages easy recall of information.
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References:
- Hayes, S. C., Hussian, R. A., Turner, A. E., Anderson, N. B., & Grubb, T. D. (1983). The effect of coping statements on progress through a desensitization hierarchy. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 14(2), 117-129. https://doi.org/10.1016/0005-7916(83)90029-0
- Plaisted, H., Waite, P., & Creswell, C. (2022). Optimising exposure for adolescents with public speaking anxiety: Affect labelling or positive coping statements? Behaviour Research and Therapy, 148, 103997. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2021.103997
