Coping Toolbox – Simple Strategies for Daily Challenges
- Ben Turner
- May 30
- 3 min read
Let’s talk coping strategies – those handy tools that help us get through tough moments. 🧰 We all face stress, anxiety, or low moods at times, so it’s super helpful to build a “coping toolbox” of techniques that work for you. Here are a few simple, effective strategies we love sharing with our ROS participants (and using ourselves!):
● Deep Breathing and Grounding: When anxiety spikes or thoughts start racing, pause and take a few slow, deep breaths. Inhale for a count of 4, exhale for 6, and repeat. This activates your body’s relaxation response, lowering heart rate and stress hormones. To ground yourself in the present, try the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: name 5 things you see, 4 things you feel (feet on floor, etc.), 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, 1 thing you taste. It can pull you out of spiraling thoughts and back to “right here, right now.”
● Positive Distraction: Sometimes we just need to gently shift our focus. Keep a list of mood boosters that you can do easily: play your favorite song (and maybe dance!), watch a funny YouTube clip, cuddle a pet, step outside and feel the sun, or play a quick mobile game. Even a few minutes of a positive distraction can break the cycle of negative thinking and give your brain a breather. Laughter in particular is a great medicine – it actually reduces stress and boosts your immune system. So don’t feel guilty about cueing up those cat videos or comedy shows when you need a pick-me-up! 😸🎶
● Reach Out: One of the bravest things to do when you’re struggling is to reach out to someone you trust. It could be sending a text to a friend (“Hey, not feeling great, can we chat?”), calling a family member, or contacting a support worker or helpline. Sharing what you feel with another person can immediately make the burden lighter. It reminds you that you’re not alone and gives you external perspective. Even if you don’t want to talk about the problem, just being around people (sitting in the living room instead of alone in your bedroom, for example) can help. Pro tip: If talking is hard, try writing it in a message – sometimes typing out “I’m really down right now” to someone is easier than saying it aloud.
● Self-Compassion: We can be our own worst critics. Practice treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a good friend. Having a tough day? Remind yourself, “It’s okay, I’m human. I’m doing my best.” You might even give yourself a hug (research shows it can release oxytocin – a calming hormone). Some people find comfort in affirmations like “This feeling will pass” or “I am stronger than I think.” Write a few encouraging phrases on sticky notes where you’ll see them. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s necessary.
● Small Actions, Big Impact: Do one small thing that gives you a sense of accomplishment. It could be as simple as making your bed, taking a shower, or walking to the mailbox. When everything feels overwhelming, small tasks can build momentum. That little victory (“I did it!”) can improve your mood and motivate you to maybe do another small thing. Celebrate each step – they aren’t trivial at all.
Everyone’s coping toolbox will look different. It’s all about finding what resonates with you. Maybe creative outlets like drawing or journaling help you express emotions. Maybe physical activity like jogging or yoga helps burn off stress. Some people use prayer or meditation to find peace. Others bake cookies! 🍪 There’s no wrong answer if it helps you in a healthy way.
We often brainstorm coping ideas with our participants and even practice some together (want to learn deep breathing with guidance? Your coach can do it with you). Over time, you’ll figure out which strategies are your go-to all-stars. Keep those tools sharp and ready – so when a bad day hits, you remember “Hey, I have things I can try to feel better.” And if one tool doesn’t work in that moment, that’s okay – try another. The more tools in your kit, the more prepared you are.
What’s in your coping toolbox? Feel free to share a favorite strategy in the comments – you might inspire someone else! 🧡
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