Cover Photo Image
Fear or Anxiety
  • Do what you are afraid of doing ... OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
  • APPROACH events, places, tasks, activities, people you are afraid of.
  • Do things to give yourself a sense of CONTROL and MASTERY.
  • When overwhelmed, make a list of small steps or tasks you can do. DO THE FIRST THING on the list.
Guilt or Shame
When Guilt or Shame Is Justified (Emotion fits your wise mind values)
  • REPAIR the transgression.
    • Say you're sorry. APOLOGIZE.
    • MAKE THINGS BETTER; do something nice for person you offended (or for someone else if that is not possible).
    • COMMIT to avoiding that mistake in the, future.
  • ACCEPT the consequences gracefully.
  • Then LET IT GO.
When Guilt or Shame Is Unjustified (Emotion does not fit your wise mind values)
  • Do what makes you feel guilty or ashamed ... OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
  • APPROACH, don't avoid
Sadness or Depression
  • Get ACTIVE. APPROACH, don't avoid.
  • Do things that make you feel COMPETENT AND SELF-CONFIDENT
Anger
  • Gently AVOID person you are angry with rather than attacking. (Avoid thinking about him or her rather than ruminating.)
  • Do something NICE rather than mean or attacking.
  • Imagine SYMPATHY AND EMPATHY for other person rather than blame.

Back to Top
Counseling Center
Student Success Center
MSC 0801
738 South Mason Street
Room - 3rd Floor, Suite 3100
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
Operating Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8am-4:30pm

24/7 Mental Health Emergency Support
Call (540)568-6552, after hours press 1