Dealing With the Unexpected

Dealing With the Unexpected

When facing the unknown, it’s hard to stop and regroup. For many of us this can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. So what can we do?

Keep it in perspective. Life isn’t always fair and you have no control when unexpected things might happen; However, you can control how best to respond when confronted with difficult circumstances.

Acknowledge your feelings. It’s OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. Consider journaling, speaking with someone you trust such as a trustworthy friend or clergy, or use art as a healthy alternative to processing your feelings.

Accept what you cannot change and change the things you can. You may not be able to change the outcome; However, you can pause and consider the best course of action based upon the facts in a given situation.

Take care of yourself. Self-care is an intentional engagement in practices or activities that promote well-being and alleviates stress. Now is the time to continue a self-care routine or implement one. Examples include physical exercise, mindfulness meditation, listening to music, deep breathing, prayer and journaling.

If you’re feeling lonely. Don’t withdraw or isolate yourself. Seek out support through community or religious events. Seek sound advice from trusted mentors or friends.

Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

Resources:

https://www.verywellmind.com/self-care-strategies-overall-stress-reduction-3144729

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

 

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