Coping mechanisms can help people feel like they’re escaping reality by relieving stress or distracting their minds. While this is quite common, it can become a problem if a person turns to unhealthy coping mechanisms, which can be harmful in the long run.
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
People may adopt unhealthy or destructive behaviours due to poor mental health, isolation and stress. Here are some of the most common unhealthy coping mechanisms:
- Overeating and undereating
- Impulsive shopping
- Oversleeping
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Healthy coping mechanisms can help positively address stress and anxieties. Check out these five healthy alternatives for coping with stress or other unpleasant emotions:
- Talk about stress. Find someone to share your feelings with, such as a close friend, family member or mental health professional.
- Learn your triggers. Know what you react to negatively so you can prepare to respond in a healthy way.
- Address negative feelings. Learn to accept that negativity is a part of life. Trying to avoid it can result in reaching for unhealthy coping mechanisms.
- Pick up a new hobby. Find a healthy, rewarding hobby such as painting or running.
- Create task lists. Make a list of personal goals to help you achieve what you want and improve your mood by checking off a completed task.