Use inspirational messages or affirmations

• Ex. you are not alone, you are stronger than you think

Validate feelings

• "I know things may be hard but you are still important. Your diagnosis does not define you."

Share things that have helped you (ex. coping skills)

• “This is something that helped me when I was having a hard time.”

Use positive end statements

• “Wishing you the best, wishing you healing, take care”

End with your first name or “your friend” “someone who cares”, ect.

Share vague parts of your story

• “I know it may not be the same but I have felt some of the things you might be feeling."

Share very graphic details of your story

You can say “I’ve been where you are” but don’t talk about specific details of self-harm or suicidal gestures as this could be triggering to patients (IF you have more personal stories you’d like to share, we can discuss other platforms for that.)

Include religious references

Include personal information

• Use last names, contact information or social media handles

Include “should” statements

• “you should do this” - focus on supportive statements

Include certain affirmations such as “if you don’t succeed, try try again” or “everything will be okay” (some kids are going back to difficult situations)

Include phrases like "eat healthy" or "eat nutritional food."