Coping Skills Resources

Coping Skills and Strategies

When life feels like too much to handle, having real tools to lean on makes a difference. Explore practical coping strategies for managing stress and difficult emotions.

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The choice between emotion-focused coping and solution-focused coping depends on the nature of the situation and whether it is within your control to change. If the situation is uncontrollable, emotion-focused coping may be more effective; if the situation can be changed or resolved, solution-focused coping might be more appropriate.

Some examples of self-soothing strategies that are not healthy include binge-watching TV, emotional eating, drinking alcohol, compulsive gambling, obsessive game-playing, and constant internet surfing.

The techniques activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases tolerance to distress, decreases physical discomfort, slows impulsive behaviors, and helps redirect a person's focus to bring it back to the present.

Healthy techniques can help you feel more in control of your emotions and present situation, which can help because stress and anxiety are often caused by a person feeling like they have no control over their feelings, situation, or outcomes.

To avoid unnecessary stress, avoid people who cause you anxiety, and avoid sensitive topics with others. Shorten your to-do list, and learn how to say no; that is, know your limits so you don't take on more than you can handle.

You can adapt to stressors and new situations by looking at the big picture, focusing on the positive, reframing problems, and adjusting your standards when necessary. Setting reasonable standards is a surefire way to avoid unnecessary anxiety.

A very common source of stress, fear, and anxiety is when a person feels like they can do nothing to improve a situation. While some situations simply cannot be changed, others can, so in these situations, be willing to compromise, manage your time better, and express your feelings to others instead of holding them in.

Accepting the things you cannot change is crucial, so you shouldn't try to control the uncontrollable; instead, look for the upside. Share your feelings with a therapist, friend, or family member, and learn to forgive if relevant.

Focus on developing healthy coping strategies, setting realistic expectations for yourself, and practicing self-care regularly.

Yes, experiencing intense emotions is a normal part of life, but it's essential to develop effective coping strategies to manage these feelings when they arise.

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Gianna Carleo, LPCC
Gianna Carleo, LPCC
LPCC.0023682, CO

I work to create a warm, inviting space where clients feel safe to show up exactly as they are. My approach centers on exploring your internal landscape—your emotions and values.

Samantha Myers, LPC
Samantha Myers, LPC
LPC.0024546, CO

Hello! I want my clients to feel empowered by their mental health journey to learn to love themselves and those around them. I would be honored to walk alongside you!

Jessica Wong, LPC
Jessica Wong, LPC
LPC.0013464, CO

Emotional pain can make us feel alone and stuck in the past, where negative events overshadow the present and leave us feeling trapped with no way to move forward.

Seth Boughton, CSW
Seth Boughton, CSW
SWC.0000001542, CO

No matter what you are facing, my ultimate goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental, empowering space for you to explore your inner strength and see your true value.

Riley Jensen, MA, LMFT
Riley Jensen, MA, LMFT
MFT.0002879, CO

I understand that seeking therapy can feel like a significant step, and I want to meet you where you are. With over three years of experience, my goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space w

Janet Starr, LCSW
Janet Starr, LCSW
CSW.09932798, CO

With more than twenty years of experience, I've had the honor of supporting people from all walks of life in navigating the challenges of relationships -- both with others and within themselves.

Sarah Kahn, MA, LPCC, NLC, ABIS-I
Sarah Kahn, MA, LPCC, NLC, ABIS-I
LPCC.0014884, CO

I have an eclectic therapeutic approach that has been developed by my 14+ years of therapeutic experience, trainings/practice and my own personal experience.

Jill Moran, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Jill Moran, APRN, PMHNP-BC
C-APN.0100432-C-NP, CO

Evidence-based care that's accessible and inclusive to all! My approach is collaborative and tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals, and I always strive to create a safe and non-judgment

Miranda Puente, LSW
Miranda Puente, LSW
LSW.0009926119, CO

Hi, I’m Miranda Puente, LSW, a licensed social worker based in Pueblo, Colorado. I offer both in-person and telehealth therapy services.

Retta Smith, MA, LPCC
Retta Smith, MA, LPCC
LPCC.0024275,

Hi there! I believe therapy works best when it feels real, human, and collaborative. I show up as my authentic self and invite my clients to do the same.

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