Healthy Coping in a Stressful World
Posted on: October 4th, 2017
We all do our best to maintain some measure of peace and balance in our lives in spite of the ongoing stress from school, work, finances and relationships, but there’s also the mounting pressure from the state of the world. At no other time in history have people been so inundated with news. Troubling reports from all corners of the globe are constantly entering our consciousness through our phones, computers and TVs. This can take a serious toll unless we employ coping strategies that defuse stress and re-establish balance.
When people have stress and anxiety they experience uncomfortable physical sensations in their bodies. It is natural to want to take action to quell those feelings. Unfortunately, people struggling with eating disorders try to escape those feelings in unhealthy ways, such as trying to get a sense of control by restricting food, numbing themselves with food binges, and other compulsive behaviors like using alcohol or drugs.
These behaviors might calm anxiety in the moment, but they are ultimately self-destructive. Instead, try the following healthy behaviors:
- Remember that you’re not alone. One of the best predictors of successful coping is having a supportive network. Phone or visit a friend or relative and talk about how you’re feeling.
- Try breathing exercises or meditation. Deep breathing and quieting the mind, even for five to ten minutes a day, can have real benefits.
- Do some light exercise such as a brisk walk or yoga. Moving your body is great way to calm anxiety.
- Maintain consistent sleeping habits. Go to bed around the same time each night and try for an average of seven hours per night.
- Tune it out for a while. Limit your exposure to the news and social media. This may not result in total serenity, but most people report considerable improvement in mood and stress levels. If you’re someone who likes to be informed, consider ten minutes of exposure once a day. It’s the repeated exposure throughout the day that keeps our anxiety elevated.
- Volunteer. Helping others gives you a sense of purpose which can be quite effective at reducing stress and anxiety.
Of course there will always be pain and suffering in the world, but we can control its impact on us. If you’re struggling with an eating disorder seek professional help immediately. Contact Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy at 973-313-1691 or info@maureenkritzerlange.com.
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