Mental Health Check: Do You Have Proper Coping Mechanisms?
When you’re going through it... what is the first thing you do? That is one of the ways you cope. By coping, I mean doing something to get through whatever you’re going through. Even though this action helps you get by, it might not be healthy for you mentally. Positive ways in which to cope are needed to help you keep going through any difficulties you may face in life. Here’s a list of coping mechanisms that I recommend!
Praying. I understand that this one may not be effective for everyone due to different religious beliefs. This is something I do often, but when my mind is racing it’s the first thing I do. When I can’t go to sleep because of my thoughts this is my special time with God. I basically lay down my concerns and allow him to handle it from there. Keep in mind that he is not a genie. In my talks with him, I mention guidance, clarity, and always ask him to watch over my loved ones.
Journaling. If you wrote in a diary while growing up you were journaling! It helped you then and it certainly can help you now. Shopping for a really cute journal that fits you can be fun. Writing down your thoughts really make them valid. Many times I have trouble verbally explaining how I’m feeling. So having to write it out definitely helps.
Exercising. This is one of my favorites! Going to the gym helps me relieve stress while training my body at the same time. You don’t have to do anything strenuous to participate. It's as simple as going for a walk, bike ride, or even dancing. Doing a physical activity is proven to put you in a better mindset.
Talk to someone you trust. If there is at least one person in your life that you can trust, you are very blessed. Many people feel as though they can’t trust anyone. Talking about something that is weighing on you feels less heavy when it’s with a person you can trust. That person knows you, so they’re able to give proper feedback. They may also be able to relate to your situation. Sometimes we just need a listening ear with no judgement attached.
Quality time with loved ones. Spending time with the people I care about always makes me feel better. With the lockdown and quarantine rules due to the pandemic, hanging with others is always a treat. You can talk about whatever you’re going through if you’d like. This coping mechanism in particular is mainly for taking your mind off that.
Reading a self-help article. If anything I’m dealing with is very specific, to the point where I can google it, I am doing that. Why not? That is one of the great things about the internet. Everything is on there. These articles are usually written by a professional or someone who encountered the same problem as you. They can help you identify what you may be feeling. These articles are extremely helpful. You are able to visualize yourself in the same situation then figure out how you would like to move forward.
What are some of your coping mechanisms? Let me know.