Stress Management: How to Develop Strong Coping Skills

Everyone deals with stress at some point in their life, which is why it’s important to develop good coping skills you can use on an as-needed basis to overcome life’s challenges. Effective stress management can have a very positive impact on your quality of life, allowing you to better handle difficult situations and overcome hardships. Here are three practices you can use to combat stress and improve your health:

Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

While it may seem that tobacco or alcohol can help reduce stress, it actually has the opposite effect. For instance, caffeine is a major culprit in rising heart rates and increasing addiction to sugary substances. Alcohol and many drugs are depressants, which will make you feel worse about a bad situation rather than better. It’s always better to find other solutions to your problems rather than resorting to drugs and alcohol to calm your nerves.

Get More Sleep

We are always being told to get a good night’s rest, but it’s especially important during a period of high stress or pressure. Making sure you’re getting to bed adequately early enough and giving your body enough time to rest is important in slowing down your heart rate as well as mind. In order to perform well at work, it’s always critical to get a full night’s rest so you’re energized and ready for the day.

Talk to Someone You Trust

If there’s a pressing issue on your mind, consider reaching out to a close family member of friend. However, while a close contact may be a good resource for advice, issues lasting longer than normal may be better suited for a professional therapist who can provide support and guide you through your problems. Never be afraid to seek professional help when dealing with any issue, big or small.

Manage Your Time

A major key to being successful and overcoming stress is simply managing your time to achieve your tasks and goals effectively. Keeping a schedule of what needs to be done each day with adjoining notes is an important step to keeping your mind straight and clear. That being said, it is always important to be prepared for the unpredictable and recognize it as part of what life throws at you, whether it be in your personal of professional life.

Developing coping skills to manage stress is easier said than done. By putting the tips above into practice, you’ll gradually reduce your stress levels and become better equipped at handling life’s challenges.

Are you seeking a professional therapist to help you manage your stress levels? Schedule a consultation today with Joseph Montaldi, licensed clinical social worker, based in San Antonio, Texas.