Page 51 - EAP Manual

Distress Tolerance TIMEOUT
Timeout (TO)—Pause & take a quick break to regroup Timeouts are helpful because my brain does not function well when I’m upset.
It can be hard for me to think clearly when I’m in Feeling Mind.
When (or from what) do I need a break at times?
  
How does an umpire at a baseball game signal that a player is out? What does he say?
BEFORE taking a Timeout, discuss with others:
 My signals—a safe word & a physical motion
 Agree to leave the person taking the Timeout alone
Tell the person.
 Share your safe word & physical signal
I statements.
 Where are you going? I’m going to...
 What are you going to do? I’m going to go and...
 How long will you be gone? I’ll be back in...
Move away, physically.
 Set a timer
 Catch your breath
 Use skills to calm down & regroup
Explore solutions or answers.
 Come back with a gentle & easy-manner
 Share what you want
 Listen to other ideas
DO:
- listen
- be open to other ideas
- focus on what WILL work
DON’T:
- yell
- get in the last word
- interrupt
- obsess when on Timeout
- judge other ideas
“Fuzzy crickets! I’m going to my bedroom to listen to music. I’ll be back in 30 minutes.”
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