From the Sexual Ethics Research Lab UMass Boston
Coping Strategies
THESE RESOURCES ARE HERE FOR THE “TRIGGERED” STUDY PARTICIPANTS:
Those people who sign up to take our “Triggered” survey may be referred to this page for exercises to reduce any distress they might feel
MINDFULNESS
10 minute mindfulness breathing video
Video of trees blowing in the wind
COLORING
Free printable coloring pages here
CALMING STRATEGIES
Drink one large glass of cool water
Close your eyes and take ten deep breaths, counting on each exhale
Take a short walk/stroll
Listen to calming music— This is a free music service with calming instrumental playlists
Practice some controlled stretching
These are instructions on how to perform soothing stretching exercises, including accessible stretches; stretching in a wheelchair
Lay down or recline in a comfortable chair and place a cool damp cloth over your eyes
Distractions
Resources
For Boston Area/UMass Boston Students
UMB Counseling Center for free, confidential support (617-287-5690 for daytime or 855-634-4135 for after-hours support)
Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) offers support and services to survivors of sexual violence, including a 24-hour hotline, counseling, and medical and legal advocacy (24-hour hotline: 1-800 841-8371)
Outside of Boston/UMB
SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center provides information on a number of substance use and mental health topics, as well as a referral hotline (hotline: 1-800-662-4357; website: www.samhsa.gov/topics)
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) offers support and information to survivors of relationship violence, sexual abuse, and domestic violence. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-HOPE, online.rainn.org)
Trans Lifeline is a national trans-led 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the quality of trans lives by responding to the critical needs of our community with direct service, material support, advocacy, and education. (hotline: 877-565-8860; website: https://translifeline.org)
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth. (hotline: 1-866-488-7386; website: https://www.thetrevorproject.org)