Life as a teenager is tough. You're constantly pressured to get good grades, do your chores, be a perfect role model and student.
Real life for teens can be both exciting and challenging, as we face new experiences and opportunities. But real life for us typically involves navigating friendships, relationships, academic pursuits, personal growth, and family dynamics.
So when you're having a bad day, be that a fight with a friend, a bad grade or a nagging parent, we can get anxious and triggered.
To be honest, I am easily irritated by even the smallest of things, like someone chewing their food loudly or the never-ending school assignments.
So, I'm practicing coping exercises and thought it might a worthwhile read if I shared more about why such techniques are helpful.
What are coping skills?
Coping skills are thoughts, strategies, behaviors, and techniques you engage in that help you manage distressing situations.
A few examples include deep breathing, exercise, journaling, talking to someone, mindfulness, time management, and problem solving.
Is there a better coping skill technique?
All coping skills are equally effective, and it ultimately depends on the individual and what works best for them.
Coping skills can be emotion- or problem-focused.
Emotion focused coping skills help you feel better, but they don’t change your situation. They help you manage your reaction to the situation.
Problem focused skills are best for situations that you have some control over, but they can help you solve the problem or minimize it.
Why would a teen need coping skills?
Teens may need coping skills because adolescence can be a time of significant stress and change, including physical and emotional changes.
Coping skills can help teens regulate their emotions, manage stress, and build resilience, allowing them to navigate these challenges in a healthy and adaptive way.
What if I am self-harming to cope?
Self-harm is not considered a coping skill. Self-harm is dangerous behavior that may temporarily alleviate emotional distress, but it can lead to serious physical and psychological harm in the long run.
Instead, teens are encouraged to seek healthy coping mechanisms such as talking to a trusted friend or family member, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, or seek professional help from a therapist.