Healthy coping skills
- Nanci Deutsch
- Jun 20
- 1 min read
Coping skills are the strategies we use to handle stress, adapt to change, and navigate life’s many transitions. While these skills are essential, most of us weren’t taught healthy ways to cope. Instead, we often fell into destructive or unproductive habits, which sometimes led to addictive behaviors.
Unhealthy coping mechanisms might include using food, alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other substances that provide temporary relief but ultimately cause more harm. Over time, these can become automatic responses to stress, limiting our ability to deal with challenges effectively.
Healthy coping skills offer constructive ways to handle life’s challenges. Here are a few to consider:
Deep Breathing – A simple way to calm your mind and body.
Positive Self-Talk – Reframe negative thoughts with encouraging words.
Exercise – Boosts mood, reduces stress, and strengthens resilience.
Time in Nature – Refreshes the mind and provides a sense of calm.
Because life can bring new challenges daily, it’s important to have a variety of coping skills to draw from. Consider creating a list of healthy strategies that work for you, so you’re ready to reach for the best option in the moment.
Coping skills are how we manage stress, change, and transitions. A diverse toolkit ensures you can meet life’s challenges with strength and resilience.
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