Cancer, COVID, white privilege, uprisings, menopause, teenagers…I know a thing or two about how to cope with intense emotional overwhelm.
Symptoms: trouble focusing, difficulty finishing tasks, may feel unsettled, unclear, unsteady.
Treatment: Avoidance coping is what we do to distract, numb, or escape our way out of discomfort. We watch TV, pour another glass of wine, run errands, work without breaks, power wash our windows. Active coping is what we do when we want to make real forward progress.
3 active coping strategies:
- Write down your emotions after breakfast. Don’t judge your feelings, explore them. No need for complete sentences
- Call a friend and say, “I need to vent to someone who won’t judge me. Are you available?”
- Do the smallest brave over perfect thing. Take one vulnerable step forward. It might be asking for help. Engage imperfectly.
Refuse to be defined by Fear. Let me help you find healthy, active coping strategies that work for you.
Love,
Susie