Q: What are some unhealthy coping techniques you are seeing during this crazy time and how can they be turned into healthy coping techniques?
A: There are a lot of unhealthy coping mechanisms people are using these days as opposed to healthy coping techniques. This of course is due to heightened stress and anxiety. I will address the column below with unhealthy coping mechanisms and how they can be shifted into more healthy coping techniques:
| Unhealthy Coping Techniques | Healthy Coping Techniques |
| Sleep issues/deprivation | Go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time. No screen time before bed, avoid the news, listen to a Guided meditation every night before bed. Take a relaxing bath. |
| Headaches, clenching of fists, Jaw clenched together, biting lips, nails, tightness in neck/shoulders | Meditate, get a massage, practice yoga, exercise, get plenty of rest |
| Eating when not hungry/overeating | Mindful eating-three nutritious meals a day, drink plenty of water, read, exercise |
| Procrastination/Avoidance | Make a list and do what you can. Begin the next day and accomplish what didn’t get done the day before. |
| Depressed/lethargic | Start day by walking or some sort of movement that you enjoy. Build up to a pace that works for you. You will feel better that you did this. |
| Drinking too much/substance abuse | Call a friend to do something with that is healthy; ie., walk, watch a movie, Start reading a book you have been interested in, go to an animal shelter and walk a dog, volunteer in your community. |
| Anger/negativity | Shift to what all you are grateful for and find the positive (and the funny) in your day. Get out in nature and explore the nature and beauty wherever you are. |