Managing Hard Emotions During Stressful Times

Written by Connie Zollner, PsyD, LMHC, LPC, CCPS, CSAT

In times of stress and uncertainty, we often find ourselves grappling with intense emotions like anxiety, anger, sadness, or frustration. These feelings are natural and valid, but they can sometimes feel overwhelming. Managing these hard emotions effectively is crucial for maintaining mental well-being and navigating challenging situations. Here are 5 practical tips to help you cope:

  1. Acknowledge Your Emotions

The first step in managing difficult emotions is to acknowledge them. It’s important to recognize and accept what you’re feeling without judgment. Suppressing emotions can lead to increased stress and even physical health issues. Allow yourself to experience these feelings, and understand that it’s okay to feel upset, anxious, or overwhelmed.

  1. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

Mindfulness involves being present in the moment without getting caught up in the past or future. This practice can help you observe your thoughts and feelings without getting overwhelmed by them. Easily accessible techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or focusing on your senses can help ground you when emotions run high. For example, take a few deep breaths, paying attention to the sensation of air entering and leaving your body, or notice the texture of an object you can touch.

  1. Express Your Emotions

Finding healthy outlets to express your emotions can be incredibly beneficial in times of high stress or anxiety. This might include talking to a trusted friend or family member, journaling, or engaging in creative activities like drawing or music. Verbalizing or writing down your feelings, even if you don’t share them with anyone, can help you process them and gain perspective.

  1. Set Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care

During stressful times, it’s essential to set boundaries to protect your mental and emotional health. This might mean saying no to extra responsibilities, limiting exposure to news or social media, or distancing yourself from certain relationships. Don’t forget to prioritize self-care and ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, staying active, and taking time for activities you enjoy.

  1. Seek Professional Support

If you’re struggling, seeking professional support can be a valuable step. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can offer guidance and coping strategies tailored to your situation. Asking for help is a sign of strength and self-awareness. 

Be kind to yourself during stressful times. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that you’re doing the best you can. Managing hard emotions during stressful times is challenging and an essential skill when navigating life and relationships. By using the above skills you can improve your ability to navigate difficult periods more effectively. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and taking steps to care for your emotional health is a vital part of overall well-being. Reach out to one of us today at the www.btrc.com! 



Share:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center Call Now Button