Question

Explain and give an example of some ways to cope with stressors.

Answer 1

Stressors refer to any factor in the environment which can also be internal to the individual which causes the individual to feel stress. Psychologists say that an optimal amount of stress is essential or even good for individuals as it pushes or motivates them to get things done. This is known as Eustress or good stress. However, when an individual is unable to cope with the demands of the environment, and they do not have proper coping mechanisms, it leads them to face bad stress known as "distress".
   Stressors are very common and we face them every single day. It can range from minor stressors like being stuck in a traffic jam or a major stressor such as being in an unhappy marriage or an abusive relationship. It is important to have effective coping strategies so that we are able to cope with stress in a positive way.

COPING STRATEGIES:
These are some ways that individuals can cope with stressors.
1. Exercise
2. Eating healthy meals at the right time without skipping
3. Maintaining proper sleep schedules
4. Writing Tokens of Gratitude into a diary every night - 3 things that you are grateful for
5. Expressing yourself to others or writing in a diary
6. Reaffirming yourself with positive thoughts
7. Adopting realistic expectations for yourself
8. Meditation
9. Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy
10. Planning out a day in advance