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Flashbacks can be overwhelming, but there are ways to manage them in the moment.
If you want to learn more about why flashbacks happen, visit our [Flashbacks page].
This page focuses on practical coping strategies to help you feel safe and grounded again.

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Quick 5-4-3-2-1 Method (Tailored for Flashbacks)

• 5 things you can see (remind yourself of where you are now) 

• 4 things you can touch (feel the texture of your chair, your clothes, a blanket. Really focus on the texture. Is it soft? Rough? Hard? Cold?)

• 3 things you can hear (listen for soft background sounds. If there aren't any noises, if you're up to it. Make some. Play a video, a song, comfort sounds, etc)

• 2 things you can smell (or imagine a comforting scent or even spray a scent or smell something scented like a perfume sample, tea bag, etc)

• 1 thing you can taste (take a sip of water or hold a mint)

Why it helps: Brings attention to the present moment using your senses.

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Temperature Shifts

• Hold an ice cube or splash cold water on your hands

• Wrap yourself in a warm blanket or use a heating pad

Why it helps: Sudden changes in temperature grab your brain’s attention and interrupt the flashback spiral.

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Safe Object or Comfort Item

• Keep a grounding object (smooth stone, fidget, or soft fabric) nearby

• Focus on its texture and weight as a reminder that you’re here and safe

Why it helps: Touching something familiar anchors you to the present.

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“Name the Now” Exercise

• Say out loud: your name, the date, your location, and one thing you can see

• Repeat: “I am safe. This is just a memory. It cannot hurt me now.”

Why it helps: Speaking and thinking actively reminds you that the danger isn’t real in this moment.

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Move Your Body

• Stand up, stretch, walk around, or stomp your feet

• Light movement can break the freeze response that often comes with flashbacks

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After

After a flashback, your body may feel tense or drained. Taking care of yourself is important:

• Drink water or tea to rehydrate

• Take a shower or wash your face to reset your senses

• Journal or draw to process what you’re feeling

• Reach out to a trusted person or support system if you need connection

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Final Tip

Flashbacks are not a sign of weakness.
They are a natural response to trauma, and using coping strategies is an act of strength.
With practice, these moments become more manageable.

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You can see our general grounding page here for more ideas

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[Back to Trauma Symptoms]

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This page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. If you are concerned about your health or well-being, please reach out to a qualified professional. Read our full disclaimer