coping mechanism
Coping Mechanism
A way of dealing with stress, pain, or difficult emotions.
Details
A coping mechanism is any mental, emotional, or behavioral strategy a person uses to get through stress or pain. Some coping mechanisms are helpful, like talking to someone, resting, moving your body, journaling, or solving a problem step by step. Others may bring short relief but create more problems later, like avoidance, overdrinking, or shutting down completely. Knowing how you usually cope can help you choose responses that support you more gently and effectively.
💡 Real-Life Example
After a hard day, one person goes for a walk and calls a friend, while another tries to numb everything and avoid feeling it at all.
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.