It would be nice if none of us ever had to deal with difficult times in life, but if you’re a human, things are going to get tough for you at some point. That’s why it’s so important that you have healthy coping mechanisms in place to help you relieve stress and get through the tough stuff as best you can.
With that in mind, here are some of our best tips for coping with the tough stuff you’re going through, whatever it might be:
1. Speak to someone
It may sound too simplistic, but the simple aft of talking to another human being about the tough tie you are going through can be extremely beneficial. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a professional at one of the American Addiction Centers, if you can find someone who is supportive and willing to listen, not only can you unburden yourself, but you can get the advice and support you need to get through whatever is troubling you. So, don’t be afraid to open up!
2. Start writing
Keeping a journal may seem trite, but again, it is a really good way of getting your emotions out there. When you write down how you are feeling, it can help you to better process your emotions, and once you are able to do that, that though time will be far easier to bear.
3. Practice self-care
You may be going through a terrible time, but that doesn’t mean that you should neglect your own needs. If you want to get through whatever you are going through as healthily and happily as possible, you need to take good care of yourself. So, whether you meditate, go for a jog, take some time out to watch Netflix, or curl up with a good book, take the time to do something just for you every day and you will feel so much better for it.
4. Get some space
When you’re struggling with something, there is absolutely no shame in abandoning it for a while and giving yourself some space where you don’t need to think about it, act on it, or be constantly reminded of it. Yes, you will need to take action and work through things for the most part, but when things are just too hard, there is no shame in walking sway and giving yourself some headspace so you can come back refreshed and ready to tackle the problem.
5. Focus on the good stuff
You might be going through a tough time right now, but chances are there is still a lot of good in your life, and by focusing your attention on those good things, whether they be friends, family, a job you love, or a hobby that gives you great pleasure, you can make life a whole lot easier for yourself. A good way to bring your attention to the positive is to start a gratitude journal where you write down five things you are grateful for each day, but do what works for you!
You can get through anything!