What is a Coping Skill?

Posted: February 6, 2023

By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S The phrase coping skills has been used over the years. Even now, the term is used a lot. But what is a coping skill?

Defining Coping Skills

Let’s start with defining coping skills. It truly is something that helps make a big feeling smaller. For example, if we feel nervous about a job interview, we might want to try to do something to make that nervous feeling smaller before walking in. Not only can this help us feel better at the moment, but repeatedly regulating our emotions can help in the long run. Studies have shown that when people can better regulate their emotions, this can help lead to a healthier and happier lifestyle. When we learn to cope better with stress, life can get easier. Stress is one of those things in life that happens. We cannot control some stress like jobs, money, deadlines at school or work, other people, etc. But we can learn to control our emotions and reactions. That is something we can control.

A Coping Skill Broken Down

So a coping skill is broken down into four things. Coping Skills in Therapy in Katy, TX 77494

It must be safe for you.
It must be safe for others.
It has to be something you like.
You have to have access to it.

What I mean by safe is that the activity or action must not intentionally injure/hurt anyone, including ourselves. For instance, sure yelling at or hitting someone might help you feel better in the moment. But yelling at your boss might result in getting fired. Or hitting someone might result in legal issues, which causes more stress for you! A coping skill is most beneficial if you like the item/activity. Imagine if you were feeling mad. You try going for a run, but you hate running. When trying to calm your body, you could become more irritated that you are running, adding to the level of anger. This is why it is essential to utilize a coping skill you like. It does not have to be the same as others. It does have to help regulate your emotions. Lastly, you need access to it to help. My favorite example is a roller coaster. I love to ride roller coasters! They make me happy, I feel safe, and I assume they are safe for others, or they can make that choice themselves. But I cannot always ride a roller coaster…bummer. So, riding a roller coaster will not work. Now remembering a fun memory with a roller coaster in it can be an option.

Are Coping Skills Always Healthy?

Healthy Coping Skills in Counseling in Katy, TX 77494

In short, no. Anything can be harmful in excess. One prime example is sleeping! Yes, every person needs sleep to function. So, yes, we need rest. But if we get too much sleep, studies show that it can also negatively impact our health. This can lead to a higher risk of anxiety, increased symptoms of depression, heart difficulties, etc. Of course, always confirm with your primary care physician to determine your specific needs. Here is where it is important to review intention. But realistically, too much of anything can be harmful. This next one might not be a popular opinion, but too much screen time can be harmful too. If you need to be on a screen for extended periods due to work, training, or school, by all means, yes, we need to do those things. But maybe not use a screen than for a coping skill. Something physical could be more effective at that point.

When to Use Coping Skills

Coping Skills are beneficial in making a big feeling smaller. This is where some insight on how big of a Healthy Coping Skills with Counseling in Katy, TX 77494

Healthy Coping Skills with Counseling in Katy, TX 77494

feeling you are feeling will be helpful. In particular, you might have different levels of emotions when you stub your toe versus someone intentionally saying something to hurt your feelings. Also, knowing your levels of emotions can help you know when to use coping skills. In the situation above, some might say I do not need a coping skill for stubbing my toe. Others say absolutely. There is no right or wrong answer here. Just yours, and it is right for you.

Begin Group Counseling at Our Center in Katy, TX!

If you would like more help with coping skills, one of the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! To begin counseling in Katy, Texas, follow these three steps:

Contact our office to set up an appointment or get more information on healthy coping skills.
Meet with one of our helpful therapists
Find other ways to help you and your family with therapy today!

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Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men's issues, women's issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. To learn more about our therapists and counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!