Anxiety and Worry Toolkit in a Tin

Anxiety is common in young people and without support it can lead to depression. This kit uses the principles of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, which empowers the individual to make their own decisions and take control. Within it are lots of self-help techniques that young people can use depending on their personal situation and what they are worrying about.

Content

• 1 x Downloadable instructions pack with printable resources including worksheets
• 6 x conversation starter and questions cards
• 4 x Option Reminder Cards (to be given to individuals undertaking the programme)
• 4 x Stay Safe (get me out of here) cards
• Storage tin

Use of the Kit

Use the questions on the fans to instigate conversation and discuss what happens when someone is feeling anxious, such as:

• What happens when you are anxious?
• How do you feel?
• How do you behave?
• What do you need to do?
• Think about your behaviour (including questions about self-harm).

We have provided some ‘Stay Safe’ cards in the kit for young people to use if they need a 5-minute break during conversations. This means that an individual does not need to feel pressured and they have an escape route if needed.

The workbook shows you how to use the question fans. A downloadable resource pack is included with lots of printable worksheets helping the individual to record their anxiety and identify if it is ‘real’ or a ‘feeling’. Worksheets also enable the individual to decide what to do with the worry using various self-help techniques.

Finally the ‘Option Reminder Cards’ are for the individual to take away with them to provide a reminder about a self-help technique and if the young person is worried they can glance at their fan to help them remember things taught within the programme.

We strongly recommend taking a person-centred approach and use only the questions that are appropriate for the individual and take as long as necessary to go through the discussion points.

The kit can be used on a one to one basis or in small groups (we suggest no more than 4 young people at a time). If using at home, we also suggest that the kit is shared with school or college.