Skills Before Pills

Save PRN Medications for Emergencies

PRN comes from the Latin term Pro Re Nata which means 'when the circumstance requires it'. Some find it easier to remember it as Per Required Need. These medications are sedating which will reduce arousal to “take the edge off” the feeling of distress. They can be very tempting to reach for when you are feeling overwhelmed. While these medications serve their purpose, a reliance on them long term can cause more problems later on. They disempower you and rob you of an opportunity to be courageous.


It is way more beneficial to learn skills to manage your distress to create meaningful change for your future. Knowing that you have the ability to manage any emotion or feeling that you experience will increase your confidence and reduce your dependence on PRN medication.

This handout has a list of skills you can use BEFORE you reach for PRN medication. 



This 16 page mini guide has a comprehensive list of skills and tactics for surviving distress.

To download this handout or Mini Guide, go to our Resources page. It's free!

Share

About Our Resources

We offer actionable resources and teach real skills to help people make meaningful change in managing mental health issues through different modes depending on people's learning preferences including infographics, text, worksheets, handouts and video. 

View Website
Stressed person at desk with hands over face as papers fly around in an office
By Al Griskaitis April 10, 2026
Ever wondered if you have ADHD? Use our 2-minute self-test to find out
Three people talking in a living room, seated around a coffee table with notebooks.
By Jess O'Garr November 25, 2025
Family therapy in Wollongong with Laura Marett at The Psych Collective. Gottman-informed, trauma-sensitive support to rebuild communication, trust & connection.
The Psych Collective
By Jess O'Garr October 24, 2025
What is an accredited mental health social worker and what do they do
 The Psych Collective
By Jess O'Garr September 28, 2025
Strengthen your relationship with evidence-based couples counselling at The Psych Collective in Wollongong.
Image of an exhausted parent and children running around energetically  | The Psych Collective
By Jess O'Garr September 11, 2025
Parental burnout puts relationships under real pressure. Laura Marett explains how Gottman Method couples therapy helps partners stay connected through it all.
Image of word tiles spelling out Betrayal
By Jess O'Garr September 11, 2025
Heal and rebuild trust after infidelity with Gottman Method couples therapy in Wollongong. Evidence-based support for betrayed and unfaithful partners.
Images of a man and woman arguing  | The Psych Collective
By Jess O'Garr September 11, 2025
Discover practical, evidence-based strategies to reduce conflict and improve communication in your relationship with couples therapy in Wollongong using the Gottma Method.
Couple sitting apart on a couch looking at each other
By Jess O'Garr September 3, 2025
Find out how couples counselling works and learn the methods used in this type of therapy.
jess ogarr dr al griskaitis  The Psych Collective
 The Psych Collective
  • View Resources Here


    We hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

    We offer actionable resources and teach real skills to help people make meaningful changes in managing mental health issues. View resources here.

We hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

We offer actionable resources and teach real skills to help people make meaningful change in managing mental health issues.