What do sour candies and a prewritten list of your positive attributes have in common? They’re both great additions to a mental health tool kit: a curated assortment of items designed to help regulate your nervous system during periods of stress or sadness. We spoke to four therapists about the objects and exercises you should put in a mental health tool kit — read their advice below.

Rebekah Brandes

Assistant Editor

Today’s Pick

How to Build a Personalized Mental Health Tool Kit for Days When You’re Feeling Down

Do you have a mental health tool kit at the ready? Also called coping toolboxes, these are personalized collections of items, activities, and techniques that can help you self-soothe when you’re in a state of stress.

Keep Reading

Together With Money

The Price of Pet Insurance Might Surprise You

Unexpected vet bills can add up fast, but coverage may cost less than you think. With Lemonade Pet Insurance, plans can start around $10 per month, with up to 90% reimbursement on covered vet bills.

Lemonade helps cover accidents, illnesses, and more, with optional preventative add-ons for routine care like vaccines, wellness exams, and heartworm tests. You can visit any licensed vet in the U.S., file claims right from the Lemonade app, and get paid in minutes — added peace of mind when your pet needs it most.

Check Your Price