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hi sam, sometimes i feel my emotions intensely and i never know how to cope. it can get really tough sometimes because it feels like there is a weight pressing down on me and it makes me want to give up. i have tried so many coping strategies but none of them work. any advice?
Hi there,
When emotions feel intense it can be hard to know what to do, especially when it feels like nothing is helping. Finding ways to cope can take time, but different things will work for different people.
A coping strategy is something that you do to help make things easier. It might be something you do to focus on the moment, or something to help you express yourself. Coping techniques aren’t always about taking the emotions you’re having away, but they can help you to manage them.
Figuring out what coping strategy might help in the moment can take time. Something that can be helpful is breaking down emotions and feelings into smaller parts. For the feelings you’re having, try:
It can help to think about ideas when you’re feeling calmer, and the Coping Kit can help you find activities or tools to help with different emotions. You can also use the mental health first aid kit to make a plan of different ideas.
Coping strategies don’t always work the same way every time, and some might not feel right in the moment. It can help to try different approaches depending on what you need. For example, you could express yourself through writing or art, or use it to keep your hands busy. You could walk or do stretches to relax yourself, or to provide a distraction. Sometimes coping can just be having a quiet space to process thoughts.
Talking is an important part of coping. It can help to talk to someone you trust, like a friend, teacher, or family member. The message boards can also be a helpful space to hear from other young people who might be going through something similar and reading what coping mechanisms other young people use to help with strong emotions.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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