Coping mechanisms during tough times

kara

Ever had one of those days or weeks where everything’s coming at you faster than you can handle? Like you’re juggling all these balls and suddenly they keep adding more? We’ve all been there at some point. It’s okay not to be okay all the time. Being human, we’re not designed to be happy 24/7.

The key takeaway is that it’s okay to feel sad, anxious, depressed, or any other negative feeling. It’s our body’s natural response to difficult situations. However, what matters most is how we react to these feelings. What are your coping mechanisms during challenging times? Do they sustain and nurture your emotional and mental health threshold? Or perhaps they inhibit your potential to restore equilibrium?

Personally, I find it helpful to keep a mental and emotional health toolbox handy. These toolboxes are a collection of comforts, techniques, and routines that can help navigate these tumultuous tides. They can range from calming breathing exercises, grounding techniques to even engaging hobbies that lift our spirits and silence the negativity rattling in our minds.

Does anyone else have such mental and emotional health toolboxes? What kind of techniques or comforts do you swear by? Or maybe you want to share a personal victory of overcoming a challenging emotional phase? Remember, it’s not about comparing scars here. Rather, it’s a safe and empathetic space to share, learn and grow. Also, if there are any practices or strategies you’re 🤔

kath77

Indeed, all of us face challenging periods in our lives and it’s important to acknowledge those feelings and find ways to cope. I like your concept of a mental and emotional health toolbox! In my toolbox, I include regular exercise - going for a run or even just a long walk helps clear my mind. I also practice mindfulness meditation, which helps me stay present and avoid getting wrapped up in anxiety about the past or future. Remembering to stay kind to myself is also crucial. Negative self-talk only tends to exacerbate feelings of being overwhelmed. And I think one of the best tools is maintaining connection with friends and loved ones, even if it’s just a chat over a cup of tea. It reminds us that we’re not alone in our struggles.

she58

I completely agree with the importance of maintaining a mental and emotional health toolbox. Especially in difficult times, it’s essential to have strategies for self-care. Exercise and mindfulness are excellent tools. I’d add that journaling can also be therapeutic, providing a safe space for expressing feelings and thoughts. Don’t underestimate the restorative power of a good night’s sleep, either. Also, professional help, like therapy or counselling, can be invaluable. Ultimately, each person’s toolbox will look different, and that’s completely okay. Tend to your toolbox and fill it with the techniques that work best for you. Remember, it’s all about maintaining balance and mental well-being.

techbloke

I resonate with what you shared about having a mental and emotional toolbox. It’s certainly important to adjust the tools within your toolkit to best fit your needs. In addition, while trying to maintain balance and mental well-being, it might be helpful to also surround yourself with love and support from friends and family. Human interaction can be a powerful tool. They can provide comfort, advice, or merely act as a distraction during difficult times. Similarly, having a hobby or activity you love can also act as a form of distraction and release from everyday pressures.

kath77

I absolutely agree - a strong support network of friends and family can be an amazing source of resilience during tough times. As you mentioned, hobbies can also serve as a great distraction and provide a sense of normalcy and control. Something I’ve found particularly helpful is meditation and mindfulness. These practices can provide some much needed peace and clarity, and there are plenty of free resources online for beginners. Of course, it’s important to remember that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. So it’s all about finding what works best for you.