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Best Of
How to make a self-care toolkit - tips from The Mix ✨
How to make a self-care toolkit 🌻📚🎨🕯
Inspired by our young volunteer, we have put together the ultimate guide to help us face difficult emotions, such as loneliness and anxiety.
Tell us what you'd put in your self-care toolkit below or share this thread with a friend who it may help 💙
You can also view the post over on our Instagram page - https://www.instagram.com/themixuk
Image descriptions in the spoiler below:
Inspired by our young volunteer, we have put together the ultimate guide to help us face difficult emotions, such as loneliness and anxiety.
Tell us what you'd put in your self-care toolkit below or share this thread with a friend who it may help 💙
You can also view the post over on our Instagram page - https://www.instagram.com/themixuk
Image descriptions in the spoiler below:
Image 1:
The heading of the image reads, 'How to make a self-care toolkit'. Below this, the sub-heading of the image reads, 'Inspired by a young volunteer'. To the right of the sub-heading, there is an illustration of a self-care toolkit in the form of a box with The Mix logo on the front, filled with items such as a candle, two colouring pencils, two books, a flower, hot water bottle, and sensory toy. In the background, there are illustrations of clouds and a sun.
Image 2:
The image has a title that reads, 'What is a self-care toolkit?' Below this, there is text that reads, 'Exactly what it sounds like! A self-care toolkit is a box of games, comfort items and toys that will help alleviate difficult emotions, such as loneliness, anxiety, depression or disassociation.' There are illustrations of sensory toys and a flower. The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 3:
The image has a title that reads, 'How do I make a self-care toolkit?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'If you're crafty, you can decorate a cardboard box, or just use a tote bag. Make a big box to keep in your room, and a grab sized one that is small enough to carry in your bag/pockets. It should be chock-full of bits and bobs that will put a smile on your face. Personalise it to your individual needs.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 4:
The image has a title that reads, 'What do I put in my self-care toolkit?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Include stuff that will soothe, stimulate or ground you. If you struggle with feeling numb, you could have lots of grounding items. If you get anxious, you could have some soothing stuff too. If your mood gets really low, you could have a few things that you find sensorily stimulating as well.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 5:
The image has a title that reads, 'Ideas for your self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Touch: Slime, putty, stress ball, squashies, beanie toys, fidget toys, fluffy toys, bendy or tactile key chains, marbles. Taste: Sour candy, marshmallow treats, mints, gum. Smell: Scented hand cream, candles, body spray, essential oils, potpourri. Sound: Music box, foil, bell, tambourine, saltshaker. Sight: Fairy lights, Christmas decorations, bubbles, glitter, marbles, costume jewellery, beads, etch-a-sketch, crayons, colouring book, pictures of loved ones.'
Image 6:
The image has a title that reads, 'Ideas for a portable self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Strongly scented lip balm - you could dig out a peppermint lip balm if you like the tingling sensation. Fluffy key chain - A mini fluffy pom pom key chain is soft and soothing. Marble key chain - A smooth glass marble key chain is always cold and reflects light which you might find visually stimulating. Mini notebook - You can write down little things that you're grateful for, or made you smile during the day.'
Image 7:
The image has a title that reads, 'Top tips for making a self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Top tip: Promise you won't laugh? Ok good. A weird but affordable way to get your hands on stimulating stuff, if you don't have it at home, is to buy baby toys. Baby toys are cheaper and more widely available than specially made sensory toys.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 8:
The image has text that reads, 'If you struggle to make decisions, scribble down all the things you want to do on a piece of paper, tear it up and put the scraps in a jar. It's sort of like a lucky dip. Pop this jar in your self-care toolkit so you can refer to it when you get overwhelmed with options.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 9:
The image has text that reads, 'Top tip: You know those naff Christmas cracker presents you always chuck away by Boxing Day? Hang on to them. Christmas crackers often have mini tactile games and nostalgic dad jokes that you might just be thankful for next time you're under-stimulated.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 10:
The image has a title that reads, 'Looking for more self-care tips?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Head to themix.org.uk/mental-health/looking-after-yourself.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
The heading of the image reads, 'How to make a self-care toolkit'. Below this, the sub-heading of the image reads, 'Inspired by a young volunteer'. To the right of the sub-heading, there is an illustration of a self-care toolkit in the form of a box with The Mix logo on the front, filled with items such as a candle, two colouring pencils, two books, a flower, hot water bottle, and sensory toy. In the background, there are illustrations of clouds and a sun.
Image 2:
The image has a title that reads, 'What is a self-care toolkit?' Below this, there is text that reads, 'Exactly what it sounds like! A self-care toolkit is a box of games, comfort items and toys that will help alleviate difficult emotions, such as loneliness, anxiety, depression or disassociation.' There are illustrations of sensory toys and a flower. The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 3:
The image has a title that reads, 'How do I make a self-care toolkit?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'If you're crafty, you can decorate a cardboard box, or just use a tote bag. Make a big box to keep in your room, and a grab sized one that is small enough to carry in your bag/pockets. It should be chock-full of bits and bobs that will put a smile on your face. Personalise it to your individual needs.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 4:
The image has a title that reads, 'What do I put in my self-care toolkit?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Include stuff that will soothe, stimulate or ground you. If you struggle with feeling numb, you could have lots of grounding items. If you get anxious, you could have some soothing stuff too. If your mood gets really low, you could have a few things that you find sensorily stimulating as well.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 5:
The image has a title that reads, 'Ideas for your self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Touch: Slime, putty, stress ball, squashies, beanie toys, fidget toys, fluffy toys, bendy or tactile key chains, marbles. Taste: Sour candy, marshmallow treats, mints, gum. Smell: Scented hand cream, candles, body spray, essential oils, potpourri. Sound: Music box, foil, bell, tambourine, saltshaker. Sight: Fairy lights, Christmas decorations, bubbles, glitter, marbles, costume jewellery, beads, etch-a-sketch, crayons, colouring book, pictures of loved ones.'
Image 6:
The image has a title that reads, 'Ideas for a portable self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Strongly scented lip balm - you could dig out a peppermint lip balm if you like the tingling sensation. Fluffy key chain - A mini fluffy pom pom key chain is soft and soothing. Marble key chain - A smooth glass marble key chain is always cold and reflects light which you might find visually stimulating. Mini notebook - You can write down little things that you're grateful for, or made you smile during the day.'
Image 7:
The image has a title that reads, 'Top tips for making a self-care toolkit'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Top tip: Promise you won't laugh? Ok good. A weird but affordable way to get your hands on stimulating stuff, if you don't have it at home, is to buy baby toys. Baby toys are cheaper and more widely available than specially made sensory toys.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 8:
The image has text that reads, 'If you struggle to make decisions, scribble down all the things you want to do on a piece of paper, tear it up and put the scraps in a jar. It's sort of like a lucky dip. Pop this jar in your self-care toolkit so you can refer to it when you get overwhelmed with options.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 9:
The image has text that reads, 'Top tip: You know those naff Christmas cracker presents you always chuck away by Boxing Day? Hang on to them. Christmas crackers often have mini tactile games and nostalgic dad jokes that you might just be thankful for next time you're under-stimulated.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Image 10:
The image has a title that reads, 'Looking for more self-care tips?'. Below this, there is text that reads, 'Head to themix.org.uk/mental-health/looking-after-yourself.' The Mix logo sits in the bottom centre of the image.
Gemma
5
October achievements!
Hi everyone! How fast time flies... it's already the first of November! It's crazy to think that 2023 will end soon. As I've been doing, I thought it would be great to reflect on what we have achieved for this month, as I think celebrating our accomplishments, no matter how big or small, can contribute to greater mental wellbeing! You can write as many achievements as you want! 
Here are my achievements:
- I'm thankful that I achieved a first as my overall grade in my second year of uni
- I'm proud of myself for completing a full month of Inktober - a drawing challenge throughout October where you create an ink drawing everyday which relates to the daily prompts and share it on social media! I surprised myself for drawing a little each day and staying consistent with my art progress!
- I'm happy that I'm able to carry out a full EEG (electroencephalography) testing session without needing any help from the PhD student who trained me! I feel really confident with the procedures and I'm really looking forward to testing participants soon!
I'm proud of you all, wishing everyone a great November!
Here are my achievements:
- I'm thankful that I achieved a first as my overall grade in my second year of uni
- I'm proud of myself for completing a full month of Inktober - a drawing challenge throughout October where you create an ink drawing everyday which relates to the daily prompts and share it on social media! I surprised myself for drawing a little each day and staying consistent with my art progress!
- I'm happy that I'm able to carry out a full EEG (electroencephalography) testing session without needing any help from the PhD student who trained me! I feel really confident with the procedures and I'm really looking forward to testing participants soon!
I'm proud of you all, wishing everyone a great November!
kaii
7
Re: What are you proud of from this week?
'Spinning all the plates without smashing any' - that counts, right?! 
Re: Post of The Month - Spooky Month!
Didn't even see this! Thankyou to whoever nominated me 💕
Chloe234
5
Key Terms and There definitions
Thought it would be useful to have a little handy guide of some key terms and common diagnose you may come across when speaking about neurodiversity and there definitions - This is actually something that I’ve pulled out a recent guide that my university disability service wrote 
Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
Neurdiverse
Dyslexia
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
Dyscalculia
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
SpLD is an umbrella term incorporating Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia among others. Closely associated with SpLD is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Neurdiverse
The word neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as other neurological or developmental conditions such as ADHD or learning disabilities.
Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways.A person whose brain ‘diverges’ from the majority can be described as neurodivergent (see also: ‘Neurotypical’). Neurodivergence can be genetic, the result of a brain-altering experience, or a combination of the two.
Neurodivergent conditions often come with pronounced strengths. However, there will typically also be areas where neurodivergent individuals struggle.
Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways.A person whose brain ‘diverges’ from the majority can be described as neurodivergent (see also: ‘Neurotypical’). Neurodivergence can be genetic, the result of a brain-altering experience, or a combination of the two.
Neurodivergent conditions often come with pronounced strengths. However, there will typically also be areas where neurodivergent individuals struggle.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia primarily affects the skills involved in accurate reading and spelling. Typical difficulties include phonological processing, working and short-term memory, visual processing, reading speed and comprehension, concentration and personal organisation – the pattern of difficulties varies widely between individuals. Dyslexia occurs across a range of abilities and is best thought of as a continuum with no distinct cut-off points. It is persistent and lifelong but individuals will often develop a range of skills and coping strategies.
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
DCD, also known as Dyspraxia in the UK, is a common disorder affecting fine or gross motor coordination in children and adults. DCD is distinct from other motor disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke and occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. Individuals may vary in how their difficulties present; these may change over time depending on environmental demands and life experience. An individual’s co-ordination difficulties may affect participation and functioning of everyday life skills in education, work and employment.
There may be a range of co-occurring difficulties which can also have serious negative impacts on daily life. These include social and emotional difficulties as well as problems with time management, planning and personal organisation and these may also affect an adult’s education or employment experiences.
There may be a range of co-occurring difficulties which can also have serious negative impacts on daily life. These include social and emotional difficulties as well as problems with time management, planning and personal organisation and these may also affect an adult’s education or employment experiences.
Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers which can lead to a diverse range of difficulties with mathematics. It will be unexpected in relation to age, level of education and experience and occurs across all ages and abilities. Mathematics difficulties are best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category, and they have many causal factors.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD presents as inattentive/impulsive or as a combined type with qualities of both. In most cases people with this disorder are often ‘off task’, have particular difficulty commencing and switching tasks, together with a very short attention span and high levels of distractibility. They may fail to make effective use of the feedback they receive and have difficulties taking in information by listening.
Those with hyperactivity may act impulsively and erratically, have difficulty foreseeing outcomes, fail to plan ahead and be noticeably restless and fidgety.
Those with hyperactivity may act impulsively and erratically, have difficulty foreseeing outcomes, fail to plan ahead and be noticeably restless and fidgety.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop. We still have much to learn about these causes and how they impact people with ASD.
People with ASD may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. There is often nothing about how they look that sets them apart from other people. The abilities of people with ASD can vary significantly. For example, some people with ASD may have advanced conversation skills whereas others may be nonverbal. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support.
People with ASD may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. There is often nothing about how they look that sets them apart from other people. The abilities of people with ASD can vary significantly. For example, some people with ASD may have advanced conversation skills whereas others may be nonverbal. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support.
Millie2787
14
Post of The Month - Spooky Month!
Hey everyone!
Happy Halloween month. I got orange nails yesterday ready for spooky month! (*inserts pumpkin ghost here*). On that note, we have new nominations for this month's post of the month.
Where and who would we be if we didn't have all of you lovely people creating your own threads and taking the time to support each other. Thank you everyone for making The Mix's community the wonderful space it is.
Could you please select your favourite nomination from this month? This choice would be too tricky for us to do alone as mods!
The nominations are as follows:
@ijamzestaylor105 - Embracing Positivity in Our Lives - Let's Share Our Inspirations!
@MatchaMia - On My Parents
@Chloe234 - National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Happy Halloween month. I got orange nails yesterday ready for spooky month! (*inserts pumpkin ghost here*). On that note, we have new nominations for this month's post of the month.
Where and who would we be if we didn't have all of you lovely people creating your own threads and taking the time to support each other. Thank you everyone for making The Mix's community the wonderful space it is.
Could you please select your favourite nomination from this month? This choice would be too tricky for us to do alone as mods!
The nominations are as follows:
@ijamzestaylor105 - Embracing Positivity in Our Lives - Let's Share Our Inspirations!
Hello, wonderful members of The Mix community,
I hope everyone is having a fantastic day filled with positivity and good vibes! Today, I want to open up a discussion about the power of positivity and how it can brighten our lives in countless ways. For this, we'll be focusing on the "Positivity Corner" of The Mix community, where we can come together to uplift, support, and inspire one another.
The Positivity Corner: A Beacon of Light
The Positivity Corner is a special place where we can break free from life's challenges and share stories, quotes, art, and experiences that ignite a spark of joy in our hearts. It's a sanctuary that reminds us that even amidst difficult times, there is always a glimmer of hope and happiness to hold on to.
Why Embrace Positivity?
Positivity isn't just a fleeting emotion; it's a mindset that can transform how we perceive the world and ourselves. When we embrace positivity, we build resilience, improve our mental well-being, and find the strength to navigate through tough situations. It's like a ripple effect, as the positive energy we generate can touch the lives of others, creating a chain reaction of kindness and support.
Sharing Our Inspirations
Let's take this opportunity to share the things that bring positivity into our lives. Whether it's a heartwarming quote, a beautiful piece of art, a story of triumph over adversity, or simply a moment that made you smile, your contribution can brighten someone's day and lift their spirits. Feel free to express your thoughts, share your creations, or even recommend books or resources that have motivated you on your journey.
Spreading the Positivity
As we engage in this discussion, let's also explore ways we can spread positivity beyond the boundaries of this community. Acts of kindness, small gestures of appreciation, or being there for someone in need can make a world of difference. The impact of positivity extends far beyond our immediate circles, and together, we can create a ripple effect that reverberates through the wider world.
A Gratitude Challenge
In the spirit of embracing positivity, I propose a gratitude challenge. Take a moment to reflect on three things you are grateful for today. Share them with us, and let's collectively cultivate an attitude of gratitude that enriches our lives and the lives of others.
Remember, we are all in this together, supporting and uplifting each other. So, let's fill this discussion with the radiant glow of positivity and celebrate the beauty of our shared humanity.
Sending lots of positive vibes your way,
James.
@MatchaMia - On My Parents
@JJLemon18
Hi I hope that you've been feeling better today,
I'm really sorry that you've been struggling with this - I know it may sound horrible to admit but could I refer to the situation as burdensome? I can imagine how much weight that is to carry, my parents sound very similar by the way you've described yours. I can relate when you say- you feel bad but you have no idea what to do to make it better for you and for them - It's difficult because they're so stuck in their narrowed field of view and can't identify their mistakes or be that self-aware to certain topics, it may be a generational / cultural thing and it definitely doesn't excuse them but it's hard to resent them for it at the same time, because you know it comes from a place of love, just in a form that's perhaps not helpful which they can't see at all.
What I've been telling myself is that their reactions stem from an "unhealed trauma/fear" or "unstable foundation" that they've been oblivious to in their life, and not because of us, instead its subconsciously being projected onto us, and it's not our role to heal or fix it for them, as much as we'd like to remove the toxic / unhealthy perspective. I think it's good to be able to mentally separate your feelings from their reactions- both may be completely valid but unrelated to each other you know? Like misplaced anger towards you may be a projection of their insecurity as parents or from a fear that your mental health isn't in a good place- anyway It's not your job to carry that weight if it's harming you. I understand though, even trying to separate yourself from the manipulation and reactions can be tiring if you're having to do it on a daily- have you tried to speak with a councillor about this?
Have you considered moving away / out for a bit? Might be tricky if you're not at university, but if it's possible I think some physical distance may help because your environment won't hold you down anymore and you'll feel more free to just be? and to feel? which is a lot healthier anyway...loving your family doesn't mean you have to allow them to displace negative emotions onto you and accept the harmful environment they create. It also doesn't necessarily mean that you're pushing them away, just creating a much needed boundary to breathe.
Sorry that this is so long, I hope it's given you even just a bit of comfort. I also agree with everyone else here, the boards are for you, and we're all here when you need us and want to talk
@Chloe234 - National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Hey 🧡 Hope this is okay to post. Hits pretty close to home and probably does for many others.
September was first declared as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in 2008. Since then, September has been a time to acknowledge those affected by suicide, raise awareness, and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services.
Each year more than 700,000 individuals worldwide die by suicide, leaving behind friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of their loss.
Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries and has long-lasting effects on the people left behind.
Suicide occurs throughout the lifespan and was the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29 year-olds globally in 2019.
Suicide does not just occur in high-income countries but is a global phenomenon in all regions of the world. In fact, over 77% of global suicides occurred in low- and middle-income countries in 2019.
Suicide is a serious public health problem; however, suicides are preventable with timely, evidence-based and often low-cost interventions. For national responses to be effective, a comprehensive multisectoral suicide prevention strategy is needed.
If you are feeling suicidal or ever need someone to talk to there are people there for you.
Here are a few hotlines/crisis lines you could contact:
- Crisis Messenger (24/7) | text THEMIX to 85258
- Samartians (24/7) | call 116 123 | email jo@samaritans.org
- Papyrus (2pm-midnight) | call 0800 068 41 41 | text 07786 209 697 | email pat@payrus-uk.org
- Supportline (hours vary) | call 01708 765 200
- National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK | call 0800 689 5652 (6pm to midnight every day).
- SANEline | call 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).
- SHOUT | Text SHOUT to 85258
It's not "weak" to ask for help.
Check in on your friends
You're never alone.
There is plenty of ways to get help and support.
Do things you enjoy.
You're never alone. There's always people who can help you
You are valued and cared for by so many people, you deserve to feel at peace with yourself.
🎗🧡I wish you a wonderful day/night🧡🎗
TW My birth parents - poem TW
Warning: This is gonna be a massive trigger for some so if you get triggered by
■ Alcohol
■ abuse
■ Neglect
Please dont preceed to read unless you can cope with what you about to read
Poem:
■ Alcohol
■ abuse
■ Neglect
Please dont preceed to read unless you can cope with what you about to read
Poem:
You put us in danger
Though you blamed each other
he then owned up
One intoxicated
Others swinging from curtains
Found “in a squalid house, in a filthy state”
Alcohol this, alcohol that
What about us???
We just wanted to be loved
Fed and bathed
What about a loving home
What about “i love you”
Or even just a hug
Was it easier to not be sober
You only cared about alcohol
Didnt you learn the first time
The arguing, the smells
Nothing was clean
Not the house, not even us
“20 week suspended sentences”
In hope to just “look to the future”
You couldnt even do that
You really did *** us over
“Serious neglect” still u didnt care
You didnt want 7 kids
You just wanted alcohol
Though you blamed each other
he then owned up
One intoxicated
Others swinging from curtains
Found “in a squalid house, in a filthy state”
Alcohol this, alcohol that
What about us???
We just wanted to be loved
Fed and bathed
What about a loving home
What about “i love you”
Or even just a hug
Was it easier to not be sober
You only cared about alcohol
Didnt you learn the first time
The arguing, the smells
Nothing was clean
Not the house, not even us
“20 week suspended sentences”
In hope to just “look to the future”
You couldnt even do that
You really did *** us over
“Serious neglect” still u didnt care
You didnt want 7 kids
You just wanted alcohol
River
6