Coping Mechanisms

This video discusses various coping mechanisms that can be used to manage emotions and stress. It covers techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, engaging in relaxing activities, and positive self-talk. The video emphasizes the importance of practicing these skills regularly to effectively use them when needed.

Let's face it, we all have feelings. And guess what? It's okay to feel. It's okay to get emotional, it's okay to be angry, sad, or stressed. This may sound cheesy, but it's important to embrace and acknowledge your feelings. That's actually the first step in feeling better. In the event that you don't have access to a therapist or someone to talk to, or you don't feel comfortable or ready to talk with someone yet, we'll list a few basic coping mechanisms. These are proven to help regain emotional stability for a period of time. These coping mechanisms involve absorbing sensory information, like sounds, smells, touch, and taste. It's important to immerse yourself in the coping technique and really pay attention to your senses. This helps to reorient yourself and feel a sense of calm. The first coping mechanism is to take deep breaths. While you're breathing deeply, pay attention to the sound and feel of the breaths. The secret is to breathe slowly. You can try the 4-4-6 method, which is to inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for another 4 seconds, then exhale for 6 seconds. Repeat this process again and again until you find a sense of calm. If you're concerned about remembering the details of this technique, don't worry. We have printed out graphics for you, which you can take and revisit once you've completed the bootcamp. Another coping mechanism is progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR. This is when you tense and relax the muscles throughout your body, which helps you achieve a powerful feeling of relaxation. PMR can also help you spot anxiety by teaching you to recognize feelings of muscle tension. Coping skills can also include doing relaxing activities that you enjoy, like riding your bike, swimming, reading, or painting. If you feel heated or your head is filled with thoughts, go outside and take a walk. Absorb the sounds and smells of nature. This is also an effective coping mechanism. Lastly, if you are feeling negative, use positive self-talk. Say something kind to yourself or listen to motivational or cheerful music. Positive thoughts and self-affirmations are great coping strategies. Try practicing these coping mechanisms whenever you can. Practicing these skills is like doing a trial run before the big race. You want to go through these skills and practice them as often as possible so that when you need them, you can implement them.