Long-Term Activities
Long term coping strategies are best to be used when your general mood is low and negative, or you have been struggling by an event such as a death, or loss of a family member. These activities can have a larger impact on our mental wellness than most of us believe.
Fresh Air
Going out for a walk for just 15 minutes can be impactful. When our body receives the outdoor air and sunlight, it shifts into a better mood because of the serotonin it emits.
Self-Care
Sometimes, when we don't even realize it, our bodies go through so much that we forget how much they deserve. Activities like manicures, going out for dinner, and taking a vacation can all relax your mind and give you more happiness than you thought could exist in yourself.
Creativity
Artwork, writing, and baking all of something in common; creativity. When our minds learn and make new things, it will send us a signal of being proud of us, and that there are endless reasons to live.
Can I Cope On a Screen?
When trying to cope, it’s most likely the best idea to stay away from screens. Screens can cause the amount of sleep we get to reduce, especially if you use them before going to bed. Social media can also be a large con of coping, as it can cause us to compare, or find misleading information. Screens can cause our focus to reduce as well, and can be bad for our brains, so generally, it is something to avoid when having a day on the down side. Set screen times on your devices to help control how much time you spend on your screens a day.
Long Term Coping Strategies
- Take a Bubble Bath/Self-Care Shower
- Learn Something New
- Cuddle With A Pet
- Read an Interesting Book
- Make and drink a warm drink
- Write a Letter to Someone or Make Art for Someone
- Color or Draw
- Watercolor
- Write a Story or Journal
- Print out and do a Sudoku, Crossword, or Wordsearch
- Call a Friend or Family Member
- Make a Healthy Snack
- Listen to Music
- Go for a Walk
- Sit Outside
- Go to the beach
- Watch the Sunset/Sunrise
- Garden/Start a Garden
- Play a Sport
- Bake Something