Coping Skills 

Coping skills are strategies people use to manage stress, emotions, or challenging situations. Healthy coping skills, such as exercise, mindfulness, talking to a supportive friend, or journaling, can reduce stress and build resilience, leading to positive long-term outcomes. In contrast, unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use, avoidance, or excessive screen time, may provide temporary relief but often exacerbate problems and harm well-being over time. Coping skills are most effective when used proactively during early signs of stress or emotional discomfort. Cultivating a range of healthy coping tools helps individuals navigate difficulties more effectively and promotes emotional and mental health.