The STOP Technique: A Mindful Pause for Anxiety
A short, mindful practice that helps you pause, breathe, and reset. The STOP technique creates space between anxious thoughts and your next step.
MENTAL HEALTH TOOLS & RESOURCES
Press Pause and Begin Again
When anxiety spirals, it’s easy to feel carried away by automatic thoughts. The STOP technique offers a mindful pause — a moment to breathe and choose your next step with intention.
What STOP Stands For
S — Stop. Pause whatever you’re doing.
T — Take a breath. Notice one steady inhale and exhale.
O — Observe. Notice your thoughts, feelings, and body. No judgement.
P — Proceed. Choose your next step gently, even if that’s doing nothing for now.
Even a brief pause might be enough to shift the pattern of anxiety. This isn’t about getting it perfect — it’s about giving yourself permission to reset.
“Even the smallest pause can create space for change.”
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Grounding Techniques to Manage Anxiety — A broader toolkit of grounding practices
4-7-8 Breathing — Slow your body’s rhythm and restore calm