Coping Menus

Coping menus are practical, choice-based tools designed to support nervous system regulation, emotional steadiness, and cognitive relief when living with Functional Neurological Disorder.

They are not treatment plans and are not meant to be followed all at once. Each menu offers options, not instructions, so individuals can choose what feels most supportive in the moment.

How to Use Coping Menus

Coping menus are intended to be:

• flexible
• self-directed
• used as needed
• revisited over time

There is no “right” way to use them. Some people use one menu repeatedly. Others move between menus depending on symptoms, energy, or environment.

Menu Categories

The coping menus are organized into categories to reduce overwhelm and make navigation easier. Each category supports a different type of need.

Calm & Reset Menus

For moments when the nervous system needs settling, slowing, or quiet.

Comfort & Emotional Support Menus

For emotional steadiness, reassurance, and gentle grounding.

Regulation & Safety Menus

For higher-intensity symptoms, strong sensory input, or when safety and containment are priorities.

Expression & Creativity Menus

For releasing emotion or tension through expression, movement, or creativity.

Motivation Menus

For encouragement, momentum, and gentle activation when energy is low or confidence is affected.

Thinking & Problem-Solving Menus

For cognitive overload, planning fatigue, or difficulty focusing or organizing thoughts.

Each menu can be accessed directly through the navigation and used independently.

Important Notes

• Coping menus do not replace medical care or professional support.
• Not every option will feel helpful for every person.
• It is okay to stop, pause, or come back later.

Coping menus are meant to support autonomy and reduce pressure, not add another task to manage.

When to Use Coping Menus

People use coping menus:

• during symptom flares
• when overwhelmed or overstimulated
• while waiting for appointments or support
• as part of daily routines
• during transitions or stressful situations

They are available whenever support is needed, without expectation or urgency.

A Supportive Starting Point

If you are unsure where to begin, start with the category that best matches your current need rather than your diagnosis or symptoms. You can always move to a different menu later.

These tools are here to be used at your pace.