Healthy vs Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms for Better Mental Health

What is the difference between healthy vs unhealthy coping mechanisms? Coping mechanisms are behaviors and strategies we use to manage stress and emotional difficulties. Coping mechanisms are things people do to deal with difficult situations.

Some of these techniques are healthy, and some are unhealthy. To grow, we need to know the difference between the two to make use of the more beneficial methods.

Unhealthy coping mechanisms vs. healthy coping mechanisms

Using unhealthy coping strategies to deal with stress and problems can cause damage to our minds and bodies. But when we use healthy coping skills, it can help us feel better and stronger. [1]

unhealthy vs healthy copying mechanism infographic

Unhealthy coping mechanisms

Examples of unhealthy coping mechanisms

Substance abuse, such as drug or alcohol addiction
Compulsive overeating or binge-eating disorders
Self-harm, such as cutting or burning oneself
Avoidance or withdrawal from social activities or relationships
Denial or release of problems or emotions
Gambling or other addictive behaviors
Excessive spending or shopping
Procrastination or discharge of responsibilities
Risky behavior, such as reckless driving or unsafe sex
Perfectionism or obsessive-compulsive behavior [2]

Consequences of unhealthy coping mechanisms

Increased stress and anxiety
Worsened mental illness issues, such as depression or addiction
Physical health problems, such as chronic pain or illness
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Strained relationships with friends, family, or romantic partners
Decreased self-esteem and self-worth
Impaired performance at work or school
Financial challenges due to overspending or job loss
Legal problems due to substance abuse or other self-destructive behavior
Increased risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment or coordination. [3]

Take a quick 10 question test to gain some insight into your mental health on a variety of topics.

Healthy coping mechanisms

Examples of healthy coping strategies

Exercises or physical activity, such as running, yoga, or dancing

Mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises
Creative expression, such as painting, writing, or playing music
Social support, such as talking to friends, family, or a therapist
Time management and organization strategies to reduce stress
Setting healthy boundaries to prioritize self-care
Engaging in hobbies or leisure activities that bring joy and relaxation
Practicing gratitude and positive thinking
Seeking mental health support, such as therapy or counseling
Learning and implementing problem-solving skills and stress-management techniques

Benefits of healthy coping strategies

Reduced stress and anxiety levels
Improved mental health and emotional well-being
Increased self-esteem and self-worth
Enhanced ability to manage difficult emotions and situations
Improved physical health and well-being
Strengthened relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners
Improved productivity and performance at work or school
Improved financial stability due to better decision-making
Reduced risk of legal problems and other negative consequences
An increased sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. [4]

How to adopt healthy coping mechanisms

A table with information about adopting healthy coping mechanisms in a post about
healthy vs unhealthy coping mechanisms

Identify your current coping mechanisms

The first step to adopting healthy coping mechanisms is identifying your current unhealthy ones. Pause momentarily to consider the approaches you turn to when feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed.

Determine the triggers for your unhealthy coping mechanisms

Once you have identified your unhealthy coping habits, determine the triggers that lead you to use them. This will help you to develop healthier coping mechanisms that specifically address those triggers.

Educate yourself on healthy coping mechanisms

Look for ways to help yourself feel better when feeling stressed, anxious, or sad. Find out what activities can help you manage these feelings. Many resources are available online, in books, or from a therapist.

Choose healthy coping mechanisms that work for you

Based on your research and personal preferences, choose several healthy coping mechanisms that will work well for you. Write down the different things you can do when you feel overwhelmed. Then, look at the list when you need to calm down.

Practice your healthy coping mechanisms

Practice your healthy coping mechanisms regularly, even when you're not feeling particularly stressed or anxious. This will help you get used to healthy ways of dealing with problems when they arise.

Be patient with yourself

Adopting healthy coping mechanisms takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way.

Set realistic goals

Set realistic goals for yourself when it comes to adopting healthy coping mechanisms. For example, aim to practice a healthy coping skill for five minutes a day instead of trying to use it for an hour right away.

Stay consistent

Consistency is vital when it comes to adopting a healthy coping strategy. Commit yourself to practice your healthy coping skills regularly.

Seek support

Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist as you work to adopt healthy coping skills and mechanisms. Talking to someone about what you are doing, can be helpful.

We would recommend Online Therapy to help you with your unhealthy coping habits.

Practice self-compassion

Finally, practice self-compassion as you adopt healthy coping mechanisms. It's ok to make mistakes and have bad days. It takes time to learn how to deal with challenging situations healthily. [5]

Conclusion

It's essential to know how to handle stress and emotions in a good way. It might take some time to change your habits, but it will be worth it in the long run.

FAQ

What are some excellent healthy coping mechanisms?

Healthy ways to cope with stress include walking, sitting quietly and thinking, writing down your thoughts in a journal, talking to someone you trust, and doing activities that make you happy (like playing an instrument).

How can I make sure I stick with my new coping strategies?

Make them part of your daily routine to help you use the coping strategies you learned. Set reminders on your phone or calendar to remind yourself. Take care of yourself with rest, food, and exercise. Be kind to yourself as you practice these new skills.