Last time around, we discussed the importance of coping skills with some examples. To recap, coping skills are healthy activities that you can utilize when stressed, sad, anxious, feeling down, or needing a pick-me-up. Coping skills can range from talking with a loved one, reading, journaling, going on a walk, or even watching a show, meditation/mindfulness, or coloring. There are so many wonderful and healthy skills that can support mental and physical health. While many coping skills are healthy, many are unhealthy.
Healthy coping skills are ways to support yourself while improving mental health.
Unhealthy coping skills are skills and tools that can still be “helpful” in the moment, but are typically destructive and give a sense of short-term instant gratification. However, the problems remain the same or maybe even worsen. A lot of times, you might feel that sense of relief, but once the high wears off or once the food is gone, the problems are still there. This can often lead to more exacerbated symptoms and problems due to addictions, eating disorders, or other complications.
Examples of unhealthy or maladaptive coping skills:
-Alcohol use
-Turning to edibles/marijuana for stress relief
-Overeating to cope with emotions
-Self-harming behaviors (cutting, reckless driving, unprotected sex with multiple partners, etc)
-Avoidance of emotions or shutting others out, leading to isolation
One thing I like to encourage my clients to do is have a self-check-in with their coping to see what they need and the purpose it is serving. Is what you are about to do to help reduce stress? Alleviate pain? Improve mood or sleep? If so, what can you do that is healthy to support yourself? Next time you turn to some form of stress relief or relaxation, check-in to see what purpose is it serving and how it is helping you.
If you are unsure if your coping skills are healthy or unhealthy, check this resource below:
https://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/healthy-unhealthy-coping-strategies
Alexandria Smith, MA, LCPC, NCC