November 25, 2024

5 Helpful Coping Strategies for Times of Struggle

The current sociopolitical climate has left many people feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. Whether you’re personally impacted or simply feeling the ripple effects of the challenges our society faces, it’s natural to seek ways to cope. As a therapist in San Diego, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult times can affect individuals, families, and communities. At Thrive, we work with a diverse range of clients, including many from marginalized communities, and it’s clear that these turbulent times have taken a toll.

As a psychologist in San Diego, my work often focuses on helping clients navigate complex emotions and difficult life situations. But when the world feels particularly chaotic, I also draw on the lessons I’ve learned in my practice to offer some clarity. If you’re struggling right now, here are five coping strategies that might help you regain a sense of control and peace.

1. Focus on What You Can Control

In times of stress, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by things beyond our control. As a CBT therapist in San Diego, I often guide clients through the practice of focusing on what they can influence. When everything feels out of hand, shifting your attention to what’s within your control—like your actions, your responses, and your daily choices—can help alleviate some of that stress. Remember, it’s not about fixing everything; it’s about finding small, actionable steps you can take to regain some stability.

Focusing on what you can control isn’t just a helpful mindset shift; it’s also a therapeutic strategy I use with many clients seeking counseling in San Diego. It empowers you to make positive changes, even when larger circumstances feel daunting.

2. Chaos Creates Change

It’s hard to see in the moment, but often, chaos serves as a catalyst for personal transformation. As a therapist, I witness clients experience profound growth following dark times. While no one asks for hardship, struggle often forces us to reevaluate our values and priorities. If you’re going through a tough time, try to reframe your challenges as opportunities for growth. This isn’t about minimizing pain—it’s about recognizing the potential for meaningful change, even in the most difficult circumstances.

As a psychologist in San Diego, I know that change rarely happens in calm or easy moments. Sometimes, it’s the chaos of life that pushes us toward a better future, just as it pushes our clients toward healing and self-discovery through CBT therapy in San Diego.

3. Find Gratitude and Joy, Even in Struggle

“Microdosing hope”—or finding small moments of gratitude—is a powerful way to cope with difficult times. When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to get lost in negative thinking, but focusing on even the smallest things that bring you joy can shift your mindset. This could be anything from appreciating a beautiful sunset to remembering the wonder of a child’s laughter. As a therapist in San Diego, I encourage my clients to explore moments of awe and wonder, as these small joys can help us navigate times of hardship.

If you’re struggling to find joy, that’s okay. But perhaps, in taking the time to appreciate the little things, you can slowly begin to shift your emotional state toward a more positive, grounded place.

4. Take Action, Even If It’s Small

When emotions run high, it’s easy to feel paralyzed. But as a psychologist in San Diego, I believe that one of the most important things we can do is to keep moving, even if it’s just in small, manageable ways. Take action, whether it’s tidying up your living space, going for a walk, or checking in on a friend. These small acts may seem insignificant, but they have a powerful impact on our mental health.

Sometimes, just taking the next step—no matter how small—can be enough to help you feel like you’re making progress. Whether you’re in need of counseling in San Diego or self-guided coping, taking action can help you move through your emotions more effectively.

5. Do the Next Right Thing

This might sound simple, but when life gets complicated, it’s easy to get stuck in an emotional freeze. Drawing inspiration from the “Frozen” franchise, I encourage clients to focus on doing the “next right thing”—even if that just means getting through the day. If you don’t know exactly what to do or where to go, just take it one step at a time. Whether that’s reaching out to a CBT therapist in San Diego, talking to a loved one, or simply taking a deep breath, each small action brings you closer to regaining a sense of direction.

This principle of “doing the next right thing” can be especially helpful when you feel overwhelmed by larger, more complex problems. Sometimes, progress is made by focusing on the immediate, manageable steps in front of you.

Reach Out for Support: Counseling in San Diego

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by these challenging times, it might be helpful to seek support. Whether you’re looking for a therapist in San Diego, a psychologist in San Diego, or a CBT therapist in San Diego, we’re here to help. At Thrive, we offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you cope and heal during difficult moments.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your family need support during this time. We’re here for you, and we’re just a call away.

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