10 Tips for Coping With the Hard Stuff

When you’re experiencing a tough time or life seems particularly difficult, what do you do to get through the hard stuff?

Try using some of the coping strategies listed below. They’ll help you to manage and relieve stress.

1. Talk to someone.

Share your worries with a trusted friend, family member or health professional. It could take pressure off your shoulders, and they just might have some advice that you’ll find useful. It can be hard to open up, but we’ve got you covered. Try these five steps to talking to someone you trust.

2. Get journalling.

Writing down your feelings can help you work out what might be troubling you and ways you can improve the situation. Don’t worry too much about what you write; just write down whatever comes to mind. Keep your journal handy so that you can look back at what you’ve written.

3. Self-love.

You’ve gotta look after yourself! Try some regular exercise, or meditate, or listen to music. Do whatever makes you feel good, even if it’s only for five minutes a day.

4. Take a break.

Don’t feel like you have to slog through the hard stuff. Give yourself permission to leave situations that make you feel stressed or angry. For example, if you’re in a stressful conversation, try leaving the room for a moment and only resume talking when you feel calm and ready.

5. Be nice to yourself.

How we talk to ourselves makes a huge difference to how we feel. Use positive self-talk to overcome negative thought patterns. Here are some ways to talk yourself up.

6. Take a step back.

Remember: you can’t do everything. Make a list of the things you need to get done, and work out a schedule that will help you get there. Don’t forget to schedule in some fun and relaxing times, too!

7. Think about the big picture.

When you’re going through a stressful situation, ask yourself: 'How important is this? Will it matter in the long run?' Some people find it handy to ask themselves: 'Is this going to matter in five years’ time?'

8. Focus on the positive.

It can be so easy to get caught up in all the negatives. If you can find at least one positive thing about a situation (Is it teaching you something about yourself? Is it strengthening your relationship with someone?), it will help you to see a more balanced picture. This can be hard to do, but you’ll improve with practise!

9. Say thx.

If you’re feeling down, practise being grateful by writing down three things you’re thankful for. They can be really little things, like your morning coffee. Look at these gratitude lists whenever you’re feeling down.

10. Do something... anything!

When life is being a jerk, you might feel tempted to get back into bed, pop your phone on aeroplane mode and avoid everything. Instead, try breaking big tasks down into smaller, more achievable goals. Celebrating small wins (like finally doing the laundry) will help you to build confidence and stay motivated until life feels easier.

We've borrowed this content from ReachOut—Australia's leading online mental health organisation for young people and their parents—with their permission. You can find the original article here. Check out more of their full range of practical support, tools and tips at ReachOut.com and ReachOut.com/Parents.

Are you experiencing suicidal thoughts, sexual assault or domestic and family violence? Seeking to support someone who is? Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Header Image: iStock.com/nadia_bormotova