Self-Help Tools & Resources

Practical tools to support your mental health between sessions and beyond

Self-help tools can be valuable companions on your mental health journey. While they don't replace professional therapy, they can provide additional support, help you practice skills between sessions, and offer immediate strategies when you need them most.

These resources are designed to be practical and accessible. Try different techniques to see what works best for you, and remember that building new habits takes time and patience.

Important: If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, please use the crisis resources below or contact emergency services immediately. These tools are for general support and education.

Coping Strategies

Practical techniques you can use to manage stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions in your daily life.

Access Tools

Available Tools & Resources:

Deep breathing exercises

Grounding techniques (5-4-3-2-1 method)

Progressive muscle relaxation

Thought challenging worksheets

Emotional regulation strategies

Stress management techniques

Mindfulness Exercises

Guided practices to help you stay present, reduce anxiety, and cultivate greater self-awareness.

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Available Tools & Resources:

5-minute breathing meditations

Body scan exercises

Mindful walking practices

Loving-kindness meditations

Present-moment awareness exercises

Mindful eating practices

Crisis Resources

Important contacts and immediate support resources for mental health emergencies and crisis situations.

Access Tools

Available Tools & Resources:

National crisis hotlines

Local Auburn emergency resources

Text-based crisis support

University counseling services

24/7 support options

Safety planning resources

Crisis Resources - Immediate Help

Emergency Situations:

911

For immediate danger to self or others

988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support

Additional Support:

Text HOME to 741741

Crisis Text Line - 24/7 text support

Auburn University Counseling

(334) 844-5123 - For AU students

Remember: If you're having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, these feelings are temporary and help is available. You don't have to go through this alone.

Recommended Mental Health Apps

While not a replacement for professional therapy, these evidence-based apps can provide additional support and practice opportunities:

Mindfulness & Meditation:

Headspace
Guided meditations and mindfulness exercises
Calm
Sleep stories, meditation, and relaxation
Insight Timer
Free meditation library with timer

Mental Health Support:

MindShift
CBT-based tools for anxiety management
Daylio
Mood tracking and pattern recognition
PTSD Coach
Tools for managing PTSD symptoms

Note: While these apps can be helpful tools, they work best when used alongside professional mental health care, not as a replacement for it.

Building Your Personal Mental Health Toolkit

Everyone's mental health toolkit will look different. Here are some tips for building yours:

Getting Started:

• Start with one or two techniques
• Practice regularly, even when you feel good
• Be patient with yourself as you learn
• Notice what works best for you
• Keep tools easily accessible

Making It Sustainable:

• Integrate techniques into your daily routine
• Set realistic expectations
• Celebrate small victories
• Adjust techniques as needed
• Consider professional guidance

Remember, self-help tools are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health that may include professional therapy, social support, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Need More Personalized Support?

While self-help tools are valuable, professional therapy can provide personalized strategies and support for your unique situation.

Schedule a Consultation