Distraction can keep you safe in the moment by preventing unhealthy behaviors (such as drug use or deliberate self-harm) that occur in response to a strong feeling, as well as making a feeling easier to cope with in the long run.
What are positive distractions?
Positive distraction is defined as, “an environmental feature that elicits positive feelings and holds attention without taxing or stressing the individual, thereby blocking worrisome thoughts” (Ulrich, 1991, p. 102). Positive distractions come in many forms, including visual images, music, animals, and digital media.
What are some good distractions?
Here's a long list of some simple things you can do to “distract” yourself in a healthy way.
- Watch inspiring movies, shows, or videos.
- Meditate.
- Exercise.
- Walk-in nature.
- Listen to podcasts.
- Sing.
- Laugh.
- Play with children.
