The Ball and the Box: A Grief Over Time Handout is a colorful, 2-page printable handout full of soft watercolor illustrations, with short, simple wording.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Page 1 shows three illustrated stages of a box with a ball and a "pain button": the ball is huge at first, and over time the box grows around it so it hits the button less often. Page 2 has a blank box to draw your own ball today, plus gentle prompts for remembering and care.
Delivery: Instant digital download (PDF). No physical item will be shipped. Print as many copies as you need for personal use.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Anyone who wants a gentle, visual way to reflect on this topic. A therapist, counselor, or school counselor may also choose to use it with clients or students.
CREDIT
The "ball in a box" grief analogy is a widely shared idea, popularized by Lauren Herschel in a 2017 social media post. This handout uses original wording and art and is not affiliated with or endorsed by her.
PLEASE NOTE
This handout is for psychoeducation and self-reflection only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment, or a substitute for medical or mental health care, and no specific results are promised. If you are struggling, please reach out to a licensed professional. In an emergency in the US, call or text 988 or call 911.
Created by Colorful Emotions Counseling | Ashley Gonzalez, M.S.
The Ball and the Box: A Grief Over Time Handout is a colorful, 2-page printable handout full of soft watercolor illustrations, with short, simple wording.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Page 1 shows three illustrated stages of a box with a ball and a "pain button": the ball is huge at first, and over time the box grows around it so it hits the button less often. Page 2 has a blank box to draw your own ball today, plus gentle prompts for remembering and care.
Delivery: Instant digital download (PDF). No physical item will be shipped. Print as many copies as you need for personal use.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Anyone who wants a gentle, visual way to reflect on this topic. A therapist, counselor, or school counselor may also choose to use it with clients or students.
CREDIT
The "ball in a box" grief analogy is a widely shared idea, popularized by Lauren Herschel in a 2017 social media post. This handout uses original wording and art and is not affiliated with or endorsed by her.
PLEASE NOTE
This handout is for psychoeducation and self-reflection only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment, or a substitute for medical or mental health care, and no specific results are promised. If you are struggling, please reach out to a licensed professional. In an emergency in the US, call or text 988 or call 911.
Created by Colorful Emotions Counseling | Ashley Gonzalez, M.S.
