If you are safe, then our next focus shifts to your basic needs.

Are you sleeping, eating, and hydrating enough to get by?

The goal is not perfection, but these are basic human needs. And these needs are relative. If you are in a short period of time where these needs aren't being met, that is okay. But if you are struggling to get your basic needs met in an ongoing way, you may need to get professional support.

Does your body know it's safe? This is a really good reminder to take a few deep breaths and recenter yourself if you can. If you're up for it, we made a simple breathing exercise. Or pausing and putting your hand on your heart or your pulse and quietly listen to your own heart beat.

Suggestions:

1. If you aren't eating or drinking enough water, set a (calm-toned) alarm twice a day to remind you to drink a glass of water or have a snack.
2. Consider doing a similar thing with recentering yourself, such as with a breathing exercise, or pausing and naming 5 things around you.
3. If you aren't sleeping enough, don't hesitate to say things like, "I'm not sleeping enough, so I may go try to take a nap now." Canceling plans for a nap is completely understandable.
4. Consider silencing your phone if it is a distraction from sleep.

The next section is about organizing a support system. If your basic needs aren't being met, consider reaching out to someone sooner. If you aren't sure where to start to get professional help, the table below shows some options for seeking professional help.

These are just some options. Don't forget that 988 Lifeline can help immediately if needed.