Coping Strategies
To cope with stressors, sharing information and discussing with trusted friends and family members will actually help. When I am stressed, especially, after a week’s hard work, I create a me-time and try to go movie, visit friends or visit a favorite place of interest in order to unwind. This strategy has helped tremendously. Another helpful strategy is to listen to good music and inspirational speeches.
Austin
Austin, I agree with everything you said. I especially like the idea of sharing information and discussing the stress issue with trusted friends. Divergence such as movies and friends are also great. I would also like to add sleep. I found that at times when something is stressing me out, I intentionally try to forget about it and go to sleep. When I awake I often find that the stressing items are not that important or I quickly come up with a solution to the problem.
i find that stepping away from the stress for a few moments, breathing deeply and asking myself if its something that will matter in 6 months? or is it something worth eliminating from my life now? i try and put all stressors in perspective
Good point Toni! When identifying great coping strategies, we must take individual differences into account. Everyone needs something different to cope. The first step is about learning what you need.
Indeed true Nita! It's so important to regroup, take a step back and reclaim your true goals and values.
"me time" is critical. It allows us to regroup, reassess and revitalize, reject the unnecessary and reclaim the necessary.
Coping strategies are individual specific, meaning each person has to figure out what techniques are appropriate for them to utilize in their life. What works for one may not work for another.
I was stressing over my husband job lost my work cutting back myfather in law dying my daughter pregnate finaces out of control but after neck pain headachecs loss of sleep I realized all of these are out of my hands all I can do is be their for my daughter my father in law my husband can't do any thing about work it's every where finaces do the best I can do and give up to god.
I like the idea of instituting a 'no work talk ban.' I have used this method before with success Christine. It is all to easy to take work home with you, into the nights and weekends. Putting a stop to it is key to taking a step back and getting away.
THis is a great addition to the original comment. I find that if i spent that wuality time away from work away from work people or institue a no work talk ban it works wonders as a destresser adn helps build other friendships as well, creating a more healthy balenced life.
Ernida
Sure, listening to inspirational speeches and music would really help.
Austin
I totally agree, this is what I do to cope with stress.However,I have never tried listening to inspirational speeches. I think this would help. Thanks!
Cameron,
What an innovative way to relieve stress. I also use that stress free time to think over issues and surprisingly find answers.
Austin
I can't deny that every once in awhile I go to a bar to eat some chicken wings & have a couple drinks watching baseball to cope with my stress.
Thanks Dr Read for your comments. Spending time with or without company is absolutely true.
Austin
Sounds like a wonderful approach Austin. Going to a movie by yourself can be an excellent way to get away. Spending time in your favorite places - with or without company - can also help.
This is so true Bernie! Sharing the challenges you face with the wrong people in your work environment can create problems. Some people don't want to hear it. Others could potentially label you as a complainer - giving you a bad reputation. You've got to carefully select who you confide in.
Yes Bernie,one should talk to those who would understand and not use it against one.The instructor who spends a lot of time complaining about students should find ways to reduce the stressors and counsel students on time management. He can obtain much relief by addressing the problem in a general e-mail.
Austin
But keep in mind that you should do this with the right friends an co-workers. We have an instructors who spends half the day "complaining" about the students. Is it stress management, or stress transferance?
