This guide is developed for domestic violence advocates to support survivors experiencing emotional distress and can be used across a variety of programs including housing, mental health, substance use, and harm reduction settings. This guide provides sample dialogue for sharing information and resources, talking about helpful strategies, and a method to develop an emotional support plan to support connection and engagement with survivors. It can also be used to support staff well-being as everyone can benefit from an emotional support plan.
The Self-Directed Emotional Support Plan is page 4 of the Guide for Emotional Support. This page can be printed and used to share with others or to create your own emotional support plan. Work on your self-directed emotional support plan when you are feeling good. Add updates as you learn more about what is helpful or not helpful to you. It’s okay if you don’t fill it out all at once, so take your time and complete the sections that are most important to you.