Unhealthy Coping Skills

Unhealthy coping skills provide temporary relief but offer no long-term benefits. In contrast to healthy coping skills discussed in a previous blog post, this article delves into habits that can negatively impact your mental well-being, often leading to harmful patterns and addiction. These strategies are typically employed to numb out negative emotions or pain, albeit only temporarily.

Habits That Can Lead to Addiction

These unhealthy coping skills can spiral into addiction, often used to mask underlying emotions. In Counselling, we address these issues at their root. 

• Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: Recreational use is fun and all, but a consistent reliance may not be helping you cope in the long run. 
• Over Eating/Restricted Eating/Purging: Stress eating often results in feelings of regret and shame. We can unpack these emotions in therapy. 
• Gambling: The initial rush of excitement can fade, leaving behind regret and guilt. 

Avoidance of People and Emotions

Though isolating and avoiding may seem easier, it only exacerbates underlying issues, much like pushing a water bottle underwater – eventually, it resurfaces with greater force. 

• Isolating from Friends and Family: Isolating yourself is a vicious cycle. The more you isolate yourself from others, the worse you feel.
• Avoiding Emotions: Suppressing emotions only strengthens their eventual return. 
• Toxic Positivity: Maintaining a ‘positive thoughts only’ mindset does not help process tough emotions. Negative emotions are not bad emotions. 
• Overworking: Working excessively leads to burnout and amplifies stress. 

Lack of Self-Compassion

Developing self-compassion and positive self-talk is crucial for long-term mental well-being. 

• Self-criticism: Criticizing oneself reinforces negativity; practicing self-compassion is a healthier alternative. 
• Over-relying on Others: Depending entirely on others for happiness can hinder personal resilience in facing life’s challenges. 

While it’s normal to resort to some of these behaviours occasionally, seeking help from a counsellor can assist in breaking unhealthy coping patterns and developing more effective skills. Reach out to a counsellor if you are ready to take the next step.