Coping with Stress
Is it possible that by eliminating an unhealthy coping mechanism I have created more stress? I quit smoking and used to feel that it relieved stress. Once I quit, I thought it would be healthier for me, but I actually feel more stressed -- perhaps because I haven't found another healthy outlet to replace smoking.
Thoughts?
I agree. My office partner allows me to vent. She also has the same stressor that have in my professional life. We typically can discuss issues and resolve problems without finding ourselves overwhelmed by the situations that arise.
Yes, a peer who is in a similar situation is a great person to vent with. They can really identify with exactly what you're going through.
finding someone like a peer to vent with can help alleviate my stresses in the job - humaor is an outlet too
I think you bring up a good point Gary. Some coping mechanisms are unhealthy and we need to give them up. But when we do, for a little while, the situation may feel worse. Sometimes things have to get a little worse before they get better. Other times, we need to replace bad coping mechanisms with good ones - like changing out smoking and replacing it with exercise.
