Educate clients about deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and imagery using the Relaxation Techniques info sheet. This printout includes a brief description of the fight-or-flight response and step-by-step instructions on how to use each relaxation technique.
We suggest practicing each of these techniques in session and providing this handout as a take-home reminder of the skills your client has learned. Ask them to practice at least one of these skills every day.
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1. Apóstolo, J. L. A., & Kolcaba, K. (2009). The effects of guided imagery on comfort, depression, anxiety, and stress of psychiatric inpatients with depressive disorders. Archives of psychiatric nursing, 23(6), 403-411.
2. Hazlett-Stevens, H., & Craske, M. G. (2009). Breathing retraining and diaphragmatic breathing. General principles and empirically supported techniques of cognitive behavior therapy.
3. McCallie, M. S., Blum, C. M., & Hood, C. J. (2006). Progressive muscle relaxation. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 13(3), 51-66.
