It’s almost impossible to find an individual who hasn’t felt stress or uncertainty in life. Whether it’s family troubles, strain at work, financial issues, or any other stressor, many find it hard to manage the pressure. We then use coping mechanisms to help us deal with the stress and unpredictability of life. While healthy coping mechanisms are what we should use, some turn to unhealthy options that can cause problems down the road. Some unhealthy ways of coping may appear to resolve initial feelings of stress but can lead to problems down the road. In some instances, drugs and alcohol are the coping mechanism of choice, which leads to dangerous addiction.
Coping mechanisms are crucial to well-being, but it’s important that we look at their long-term effects. For example, avoiding feelings of stress by remaining in bed is a coping mechanism of a sort, but it neither resolves the problem nor gives the sufferer tools to handle stress in the future. Substituting positive coping techniques for negative ones is critical.
UNHEALTHY COPING MECHANISMS
Those who suffer from drug addiction or dependency feel that no other option for stress management exists. They can’t imagine anything taking the place of their substance of choice. In fact, they may endure intense feelings of despair, sadness, and hopelessness when they imagine a life without the substance. Whether the substance of choice is alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription pills, using is never the answer.
Often times, these substances are sought out in order to cope with much more than just stress. Mental health issues that are left without diagnosis or treatment tend to result in the use of harmful substances. Other times, addiction can exacerbate the symptoms of the mental health problem. To help manage substance abuse and mental health, a dual diagnosis is essential. Once in treatment, a dual diagnosis will address the mental health issue and the problem of addiction at the same time.
SO WHAT ARE HEALTHY COPING MECHANISMS?
Once you begin at a facility for mental health treatment or addiction treatment, you will begin to learn about healthy options when it comes to coping with life. These methods can either place a focus on problem-solving or have the focus on emotional management. They can be supportive, relaxing, or requiring physical activity. Examples can include:
- Support groups
- Mediation
- Yoga
- Running
- Swimming
- Writing
- Listening to music
It’s important to speak with counselors and other supportive staff members to determine which methods will work best for you and the stress you face.
HEALTHY COPING AND HEALING AT MORNINGSIDE RECOVERY
At Morningside Recovery, our rehab programs help addiction sufferers reconnect with their natural ability to cope with life’s challenges without the misuse of drugs or alcohol. This provides them with the tools they need for long-term health. We help clients cope with mental health and addiction problems through extensive addiction therapy services, including:
By participating in these therapy programs, clients find new ways to manage stress that don’t rely on substance abuse. They can also continue using the skills they learn in these programs for the rest of their lives to promote health, happiness, and sobriety. By offering a wide variety of therapy options, we can find methods that work for all of our clients.
It’s time to regain control of your life. Learn more about healthy coping mechanisms at Morningside Recovery by calling 855-416-8202. Our staff is ready to help you discover the healthier life that is waiting for you. We can answer your questions about treatment, help you learn about insurance options, and help you take that first step towards lasting recovery.