43 helpful things to say to someone who is stressed
I loved this article. I have a tendency to say, "You are OK" way too much when one of the boys is anxious. I needed a few new phrases to help me respond better and these do just the trick!
- Let's take a break.
- This time is for fun.
- Let your brain rest and enjoy the downtime.
- There's no pressure.
- What is your heart worried about?
- Let's have a relaxing morning to set the tone for a stress-free day.
- You're not supposed to know how to do everything.
- There's no such thing as failing when you're trying something new.
- How does your tummy feel about that decision?
- You're in a safe place.
- Is there a special spot that will make you feel more comfortable talking about it?
- It's OK to listen to your body.
- I know you're feeling stressed, but let's talk about how we are going to get through it together.
- I get worried sometimes too.
- You aren't alone.
- You might not know that everything's going to be OK — but I do — and you can trust me.
- Every time you feel the little alarm inside you go off, take five deep breaths.
- I completely understand why you would be worrying about that.
- Let's talk about the worst case — and the best case.
- I know what that stress feels like, I used to worry about . . .
- I want to try to understand exactly what you're stressing about.
- I totally get it.
- I can tell something is worrying you and I'm here when you're ready to talk about it.
- Which part is bogging you down the most?
- Let's face our fears together.
- Success is just giving it your best, no matter what the outcome.
- Let's embrace our mistakes.
- First, let's talk about the positives.
- Why do you think that's worrying you?
- We can read a book while we wait for that bad feeling to go away.
- Do you think others are feeling the same way?
- What do you think will happen next?
- You can do this, and I'm proud of you for trying.
- Let's draw our worries.
- We're going to put your worry in the corner and check on it in 20 minutes.
- We can research it together and learn more.
- Let's play devil's advocate.
- If (blank) was in this situation, what would they do?
- Let's break it down into smaller pieces — what's the first part of concern?
- Stress is just a fleeting feeling, let's thank it for stopping by and know that it doesn't have to stay.
- What can I do to help you?
- I know it's hard not to worry sometimes.
- Remember when you made it through the last time?