Here is a list of common cognitive distortions, or Thinking Traps. Thinking traps are negative things we tell ourselves that, if we say it enough - if we fall into that trap - we believe those things and have a hard time hearing anything else. Take a look at this list to see whether you have fallen into any thinking traps. The next step is being open to change your thoughts and get out of that trap.

Here is a step by step guide to changing your negative thoughts - your thinking traps. If you need or want help with this, please let me know. Another great coping mechanism is asking for help - changing your thinking is easier if you're not trying to do it alone.- Download here.

This PowerPoint from the College of Idaho - lots of good stuff from them! These slides tell you what stress is, how it impacts your health and what you can do to manage it better. If you need help with any of these issues, I'm available to talk and maybe come up with some strategies that would work best for you.

Check out this list of automatic thoughts many of us have when we're under stress or feeling like we're not doing our best. A good way to support ourselves and our learning is to change those negative messages we give ourselves, especially when we're comparing ourselves to others.

Here is a list of different activities or actions you can take to focus on your strengths. If you do any of these, particularly activities that have to do with other people, see how focusing on someone else's strength makes you feel and how your relationship with that person grows as a result.