Dealing with Stress?

[AmaryllisK]

Hi everyone,

I just moved to a new city and have been trying to figure out everything (New Job, New Place, etc...), meanwhile trying to keep my mental health in check. But I have been having a hard time dealing with all the new stress, which are causing anxiety and panic attacks..... My normal coping mechanism aren’t really working, and I feel like I am crumbling under all the pressure.

What coping mechanisms help you guys deal with stress?

[Marnie22 Volunteer]

Hi. I find breathing exercises can be helpful, especially if you do them regularly; mindfulness exercises; hypnosis recordings; relaxation recordings. This website has lots of interesting stuff and is recommended by the NHS:

getselfhelp.co.uk/

Here are some links:

youtu.be/qcnU2sUTvxs(Not working as expected?)

youtu.be/yPebkk7xjF0(Not working as expected?)

youtu.be/MR57rug8NsM(Not working as expected?)

I wish you all the best. 🙂🌸

[SirGrits]

For better or for worse, my recipe has been journalling (writing my thoughts and journalling for productivity), walks, videogames and reading for fun--in that order. The walks seem to be the most effective "quick fix". Congrats on the life change and God speed.

[Nathalie99 Partner]

Hi AmaryllisK,

I hace been in a similar situation and I have found that with so much change it is very hard to have sustainable coping techniques.

It is still worth to ground yourself wherever you are and I needed to find a nice place or a view to look at.

I also feel better in a somewhat familiar environment but that's not always possible to have.

I would say that finding things you can control, small things, can already bring a sense of comfort and safety.

Also, having a safe place, real or imaginary, can help reduce feeling scared.

I think that big life changes, even positive ones, can activate nervous system in some ways that are similar to any kind of stress.

I think pacing yourself and making sure you find as many moments as possible when you feel safe, can help ease the stress.

[SavingGrace Administrator]

New places are always hard to cope with, I agree. I might probably try and balance a combination of getting fresh air and time on my own, with becoming more integrated through trying to socialise and build that side of my life. Even if it means getting out and finding a favourite coffee shop, or place to just sit and observe the world about me - whilst interacting with those persons around me in that place.It's not easy - and you have to go with what works for you personally and fits best.

How is your new home going? Maybe you can invite some people around for lunch at the weekend?