Although it is not always welcome, change is inevitable. Because change is bound to happen, it is important that we learn how to properly handle our emotions. Whether it’s changes with your work, family, health, or something else, dealing with change and adjusting to your new normal can be quite daunting. If you struggle with changes in your life, here are some helpful coping skills.
7 Strategies for Coping with Change in Your Life
1. First, acknowledge that change is happening.
Change can be extremely difficult in some cases and can often lead to denying and putting off the problem instead of actually dealing with it. Instead of putting it off, acknowledge that change is happening. This can help to ease some stress.
2. Plan ahead when possible.
If you know that a big life change is about to happen, take some time and plan ahead. When you have a backup plan in place, it can make change a little less scary.
3. Reframe your thought process.
When you’re feeling sad or negative emotions, take the time to figure out what is going on inside your mind so that you can work to break down those negative thought patterns. Once you become aware of the negative thoughts that you have, it is much easier to redirect your thought process to a positive one.
4. Write down the positives that come from this change.
While it is easy to focus on the negatives of change, try focusing on the positives that have come from this change and write them down. This could be meeting new friends, getting a new opportunity at work, or even just practicing healthier habits, such as mediation and regular exercise.
5. Try to maintain your regular schedule.
Change can often feel like it has thrown our whole life out of whack, so it is important that you try to maintain routine and structure. When we can have certain aspects of our life stay the same, such as practicing meditation at the start of each day or taking your dog for a walk at the same time every day, it gives us an anchor to hold on to. You should also try your best to stick to your regular sleeping and eating schedules.
6. Find your comfort activity.
While change is expected in life, it doesn’t make it any easier or any less stressful. Find stress-relieving activities that you enjoy and try to incorporate it into your daily routine. What you choose to be your comfort activity is completely up to you; just ensure that it is both comforting and healthy. This may include taking a warm bubble bath, meditating, or creating art.
7. Exercise.
Research has found that exercising at least 2 to 3 times per week significantly decreases the symptoms of depression. Whether you choose to take a short walk around the block or go for a workout at the gym, getting out and moving around can help you to feel better and to find your motivation again.
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Addiction recovery at a professional treatment facility can provide you with support that you would not have at home. With a professional team, you can get help to manage your withdrawal symptoms, as well as managing your mental health symptoms.
Here at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Centers, our team of professionals understands that recovery is unique to everyone and will work with you to create a treatment plan that works best for you. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorders, treatment professionals are standing by to help with a variety of treatment options. Call (318) 728-2970 or visit Palmetto Addiction Recovery Centers Today.