More Resources for Individuals Experiencing Psychosis
Why Storytelling Matters
Talking about experiences can help storytellers…
- Make sense of their experiences
- Cope with their emotions
- Connect with others
- Facilitate healing
- Build hope and resilience
- Raise awareness
- Reduce stigma
- Advocate for change
Taking Care of Yourself
When telling your story, it may be helpful to…
- Be aware of your emotions and activators
- Set boundaries
- Seek support
- Practice gratitude and self-care
- Stay calm with techniques like grounding, breathing, and mindfulness
- Stories can be told in many ways: speaking, writing, art, music, etc. Tell your story in the most comfortable way for you.
Empowerment Through Storytelling
- You are in control of how you tell your story
- Highlight personal growth and resilience
- Remember your strengths and positive attributes
- You are never obligated to share your story
Responding to Stories
- Do
Respect storytellers’ boundaries and pace
Encourage and give positive feedback
Use active listening skills
Recognize and respect cultural differences
Connect storytellers with resources and networks
Encourage peer support and collaboration
- Dont
Pressure people to tell their stories
Judge or criticize
Interrupt or correct stories
Make assumptions
Lean on stereotypes
Center the listener
Tips
Storytellers must feel physically and emotionally safe
Some may feel more comfortable sharing after hearing
from others with shared experiences
Build a community which values and uplifts individual stories
Create an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment