Negative feelings are a natural part of the human experience, but it’s how we cope with them that ultimately determines our mental well-being. Whether it’s stress, sadness, anger, or anxiety, learning effective coping strategies can help navigate through these emotions and emerge stronger on the other side.

1. Acknowledge and Accept Your Feelings. Avoid suppressing or denying your feelings, as this can lead to them festering and becoming more intense over time. Instead, practice mindfulness by acknowledging your emotions without judgment. Allow yourself to experience them fully, knowing that it’s okay to feel this way.

2. Practice Self-Compassion. Negative feelings often come with a barrage of self-criticism and self-blame. Counteract this destructive inner dialogue by practicing self-compassion. (This is where I use my notes app to get all the negative self talk out instead of listening to that voice repeat its mantra). Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges. Remind yourself that everyone experiences negative emotions, and it’s a normal part of being human.

3. Engage in Physical Activity. Physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also your mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and reduces levels of stress hormones in the body. Whether it’s going for a brisk walk, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga, find a form of physical activity that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.

4. Connect with Supportive Individuals. Support from friends, family, or a therapist can provide invaluable assistance when coping with negative feelings. Share your thoughts and emotions with someone you trust, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Social connection is a powerful antidote to loneliness and can provide a sense of validation and understanding during challenging times.

5. Practice Relaxation Techniques. Incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine can help calm your mind and alleviate negative feelings. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can promote relaxation and reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you and make time for relaxation each day.

Coping with negative feelings is an essential skill for maintaining emotional well-being. By acknowledging and accepting your emotions, practicing self-compassion, engaging in physical activity, connecting with supportive individuals, and incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine, you can effectively navigate through difficult times and emerge stronger on the other side. Remember, it’s okay to seek professional help if you’re struggling to cope on your own. With time and practice, you can develop resilience and learn to manage negative feelings more effectively.

Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

If you’re in Colorado, you can also call 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255 to reach Colorado Crisis Center

Do you know who your safe person is? Do you have a quiet spot for when you need to take a minute?