Coping with Stress

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In a group or individual setting have each person read through the coping skills one category at a time. Ask each individual to comment on one of the items he or she could utilized when experiencing stress.

Diversions

Getaways: Spend time alone. See a movie. Daydream.
Hobbies: Write, Paint, Remodel, Create something.
Learning: Take a class. Read. Join a club.
Music: Play an instrument. Sing. Listen to music.
Play: Play a game. Goof off. Go out with friends.
Work: Tackle a new project. Keep busy. Volunteer.

Family

Balancing: Balance time at work and home. Accept the good with the bad.
Conflict Resolution: Look for win/win solutions. Forgive readily.
Esteem-building: Build good family feelings. Focus on personal strengths.
Flexibility: Take on new family roles. Stay open to change.
Networking: Develop friendships with other families. Make use of community resources.
Togetherness: Take time to be together. Build family traditions. Express affection.

Interpersonal

Affirmation: Believe in yourself. Trust others. Give compliments.
Assertiveness: State your needs and wants. Say "no" respectfully.
Contact: Make new friends. Touch. Really listen to others.
Expression: Show feelings. Share feelings.
Limits: Accept others' boundaries. Drop some involvements.
Linking: Share problems with others. Ask for support from family/friends.

Mental

Imagination: Look for the humor. Anticipate the future.
Life planning: Set clear goals. Plan for the future.
Organizing: Take charge. Make order. Don't let things pile up.
Problem-solving: Solve it yourself. Seek outside help. Tackle problems head on.
Relabeling: Change perspectives. Look for good in bad situation.
Time Management: Focus on top priorities. Work smarter, not harder.

Physical

Biofeedback: Listen to your body. Know your physical limitations.
Exercise: Pursue physical fitness. Jog. Swim. Dance. Walk.
Nourishment: Eat for health. Limit use of alcohol.
Relaxation: Tense and relax each muscle. Take a warm bath. Breathe deeply,.
Self-care: Energize your work and play. Strive for self-improvement.
Stretching: Take short stretch breaks throughout your day.

Spiritual

Commitment: Take up a worthy cause. Say "yes". Invest yourself meaningfully.
Faith: Find purpose and meaning. Trust God.
Prayer: Confess. Ask forgiveness. Pray for others. Give thanks.
Surrender: Let go of problems. Learn to live with the situation.
Valuing: Set priorities. Be consistent. Spend time and energy wisely.
Worship: Share beliefs with others. Put faith into action.

(Whole Person Press)

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