Unhealthy coping skills are negative strategies people may use to manage stress or anxiety. What makes these coping skills unhealthy is the idea that they have the capability to worsen mental and physical health over time, and may not necessarily be sustainable. Examples of unhealthy coping strategies include substance abuse, overeating, avoidance, aggression, or self-harm. These coping mechanisms may initially seem to provide a distraction from difficult emotions, but they typically fail to address the root causes of the stress and leave individuals forced to continue these harmful habits. Seeking therapy to address these unhealthy coping mechanisms can be beneficial for all ages, especially those going through stressful transitions like college students.
Therapy can be a life changing factor in the life of a college student going through a stressful transition period. In times of stress, uncertainty, and unfamiliarity, unhealthy coping mechanisms seem to be the easy way out. This can be especially true in college, when other young adults may be trying these unhealthy habits for the first time too. However, that isn’t the answer. Doing what is best for YOU, is.
Unhealthy coping mechanisms can look different for every person. For one person it may look like binging chocolate at night before bed, and other people may be watching Love Is Blind until 3AM. These are both examples of unhealthy, self-soothing habits because doing these for a long period of time can affect one’s overall well being. This can also look like procrastination, which is easy in college when you are trying to balance your social life and academics.
What about self care? Where does that come in? Juggling obligations for school and friends can leave you putting self care on the back burner. And, on the other hand, self care practices like sleeping can also be an unhealthy coping mechanism done in excess to try and escape the stressors! That feeling of waking up from a nap and not knowing the time, day, or year is not a way you want to feel daily. It is a fast fix. Trust me, the napping will feel good, but the long term effects will not. In this way, any habits done to cope with stress that could negatively impact one’s well-being is considered an unhealthy coping mechanism.
Now, let’s look at some tips and tricks for healthy coping mechanisms and what those can look like. You have probably heard this a lot, but movement is medicine. Running on the treadmill blasting Taylor Swift, trying hot yoga with your roommate, or having a dance party in your dorm are all ways to cope in a healthy way. This is a quick fix, but it also will benefit your overall well-being. Journaling is also a great hobby to implement into your routine. This can be daily or weekly, but writing down your thoughts, and even gratitude can be so helpful, and a way of letting these emotions out. Call your family, or long distance friends. This can be so helpful to get your mind off of your stress, or even just to rant and get everything off your chest. The sense of familiarity will be comforting, and you will feel more supported hearing your loved ones’ voices.
This critical time in individuals’ lives often involves immense levels of stress as they try to manage academic pressure alongside a blossoming personal life. Without proper support, unhealthy coping mechanisms—such as substance abuse, isolation, or procrastination- can definitely provoke one to spiral, leading to an increased amount of anxiety, depression, or burnout. This is not what the college experience is about. It is not supposed to be miserable- it is supposed to set one up for success!
Seeking therapy at any age is the right answer, but especially for college students. Therapy provides a safe space without judgement, and can help individuals develop healthier coping skills. Students can learn how to manage and navigate their emotions, and improve their well-being. Confronting stress and unhealthy patterns can be super difficult, but a therapist’s guidance can make coping feel that much more accessible and sustainable.
THERAPY SERVICES FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS WE OFFER IN MANHATTAN & BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally will enhance your ability to cope with academic demands and personal challenges. While college has so much to offer, it can feel overwhelming and exhausting, often leading to feelings of burnout. Setting aside time for you, including finding time to rest and rejuvenate is essential in adjusting to this transition.
At Manhattan Wellness, we understand that the transition to college is an exciting time filled with so much opportunity. But, we also know that with change comes a lot of uncertainty, which can be intimidating and stressful. We are here to support you in finding your path and feeling confident as you take on this new chapter. Follow these steps:
- Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Learn More About Our Team of Therapists for College Students and Our Therapy Specialists
- Get Support As You Find Your Path in College!
THERAPY SERVICES FOR ANXIETY WE OFFER IN MANHATTAN & BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
The truth is, there’s no single or one-size-fits-all approach to anxiety treatment. Everyone has a different approach to managing anxiety and anxious thoughts. That is why it’s important to get clear on what works for you. Once you have a better understanding of yourself and your values, you can start designing your life based on the things that are most important to you.
Therapy for women in Manhattan and Brooklyn is a great way to figure out how to manage your anxious mind. At Manhattan Wellness, we will provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings and goals. So you can find clarity on what you want for yourself. We will pair your vulnerability with our empathy and encouragement. Then together we will uncover the key elements that will take you from where you are now to where you want to be. If you are ready to make the changes you want in your life:
- Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
- Learn More About Our Team of Female Therapists and Our Areas of Expertise
- Let’s Talk About How We Can Help You Feel Empowered & Ready To Take The Next Step.
We believe that you have the power within yourself to make the changes you want and find your version of success. Our female therapists are here to support you in navigating this journey. Allowing you to reclaim your identity and take control of your life. Thus allowing you to create the future you’ve been dreaming of.
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES OFFERED IN MANHATTAN, WESTCHESTER BROOKLYN, & THROUGHOUT NEW YORK
At Manhattan Wellness, our therapists are here to support you in navigating this journey and reclaiming your identity. So you can take control of your life and create the future you’ve been dreaming of. This is why we offer a variety of services to ensure you get the support, care, and guidance necessary. The therapy services we offer are Therapy for Maternal Mental Health, Self-Esteem Counseling, and Anxiety Treatment. Along with Dating/Relationship Counseling, Counseling for College Students, and more. Feel as if you are not living the life you deserve? Let’s talk about it.
