One of the most effective methods to keep your head on straight in a desperate situation, The STOP Survival Method goes like this:
Stop – Look around you, consider everything that’s going on and breath for enough time to let your thoughts to slow down and be clear. The goal here is to eliminate panic.
Think – Once you’ve gotten past the point of panic, check in with yourself. Think about how you feel, what you have on your person and what is in close proximity. This will help determine what your immediate options are.
Observe – Now expand you sphere to notice what’s going on around you. Take into account the people you’re with, what resources are present in your surroundings, and what is happening around you.
Plan – With all the information gathered in your head, begin to make a plan. Address the most important things first based on your situation and don’t forget to include the needs and capabilities of those you’re with.
Put your plan into action and do whatever is needed to survive.
Whenever tensions rise or you start to feel panicked or overwhelmed again, repeat the process to keep your mind in the right state. Your mind is the most important tool at your disposal and keeping it clear and focused is essential to survival.