Guide to Coping with Stress
We’ve all just experienced a time when life was utterly unpredictable. Both our work lives and home lives changed, sometimes beyond recognition. Some people lost jobs and livelihoods, while others dealt with serious illnesses or the threat of becoming ill.
Every generation finds itself dealing with a period when life is unpredictable due to circumstances beyond their control; wars, economic downturns, weather-related disasters, and widespread illnesses are part of our world. They are scary and difficult to handle, creating stress and feelings of helplessness and instability.
Let’s talk about some ways you can cope with stress even when life is unpredictable.
What Are Some Coping Skills I Can Use To Manage Stress?
When your world is turned upside down, it’s still possible to remain calm. Such a mindset will help you handle whatever comes and enable you to make wise decisions. Here are a few coping strategies that can help you manage stress:
- One of the most basic ways to manage stress is eating the right things and avoiding stimulants. Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine may temporarily relieve stress, but they bring negative health impacts and can actually make your anxiety worse over time. Well-nourished bodies cope, so eat organic fruits and vegetables, avoid processed foods and sugar, and drink more water.
- Relaxation techniques activate a state of restfulness that counterbalances your body’s fight-or-flight hormones. Regular exercise and spending time outdoors can also help you manage feelings of distress and anxiety.
- Talking face to face with another person releases hormones that reduce stress. When the world is unpredictable, everyone is feeling the weight. Find positive people to connect with; they may have some great pointers for you on handling stress that they use themselves!
What Can I Do When I Don’t Feel I Can Cope By Myself?
If negative thoughts overwhelm your ability to make positive changes, it’s time to seek professional help. You don’t have to go through difficult times alone. Here at John Nichols Psychotherapy, I provide you with a safe space to tell your story.
People ask me quite often how psychotherapy works; while everyone I see is different and has their own unique story, these key components will help you achieve your goals:
- Find a trained, competent therapist
- Be ready to work
- Get along with your therapist
At John Nichols Psychotherapy, therapeutic sessions can include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – “traditional” Therapy
- Existential Therapy – emphasizing the human condition and creating your happiness
- Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) – A technique used to target and resolve specific traumatic incidents involving bilateral stimulation such as side-to-side eye movement or hand tapping
I offer therapy sessions for individuals, couples, and teens at John Nichols Psychotherapy. Are you ready to begin Therapy? Do you still have more questions about how treatment works? You can contact me by calling, email, or booking an appointment through my website anytime!