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Free Handout: Do’s and Don’ts for Communicating When You’re Upset

This practical one-page guide helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) learn healthy ways to communicate during difficult or emotional moments.

Clear and easy-to-read, the resource outlines positive strategies (the Do’s) and unhelpful behaviors to avoid (the Don’ts) when talking with a partner, friend, or family member while upset.

Topics covered include:

  • Calming down before speaking
  • Using “I” statements instead of blame
  • Listening well
  • Staying focused on the current issue
  • Avoiding escalation and old arguments

Ideal for: Self-advocates, couples, families, educators, and support professionals working on healthy relationships and communication skills.

Image of Elevatus handout, Do’s and Don’ts for Communicating
Headshot of Katherine McLaughlin

By Katherine McLaughlin

Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed., AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Trainer for Elevatus Training. She has been a sexuality educator and trainer for over 30 years. As a national expert on sexuality and intellectual and developmental disabilities, she trains professionals and parents, as well as people with I/DD, to become sexual self-advocates and peer sexuality educators.⁠

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