[ID: Two lorikeet birds bouncing around a water bowl being filled. /END ID]

like, everything I do that normally my friends wouldn't bat an eye at, nothing. The jokes don't land, and when they do, the laughter is AT me, not with me.

Only then, once I'm quiet, speak only when spoken to, once I've boxed myself up, will they give me the time of day.

After that? I have to prove myself "enough" CONSTANTLY in whatever way so they won't leave me. An old dog performing tricks to keep from being replaced with a newer, cuter puppy.

“Wow this is pretty rough huh…let’s think of some good things instead! What are some things we’re looking forward to?”

“I have an idea, lets pretend we’re in slow-motion, even our breathing and blinking is slooowwww”

“Quick I need your help it’s really super important! Tell me every single [color/animal/etc] you can possibly think of”

“Hey buddy, do you maybe want your favorite snack? I bet you’re pretty tired huh…how about we have a little nap/go to bed early tonight”

Doesn’t always have to be for handling negative stuff either in fact doing it in neutral-positive situations will help you remember it’s even an option in times of distress. And in general it’s just very healing, promotes self-worth, etc.