Chapter 12 of our textbook discusses different ways of coping with stress. On page 459 of our textbook there is a test we can take to determine our level of stress. After taking the test, the results are not surprising. I was in the "moderately stressed" range. I assume that most people are at least in the "mildly stressed" range and perhaps a few people are in the "major stressed" range. What this test demonstrates is that almost everyone is stressed which means that we need to find health ways to deal with that stress.
The problem-focused coping strategy is when we solve problems by directly confronting the issue and working through the problem. The problem-focused works hand-in-hand with the emotion-focused coping strategy which is when we try to change our thought process to view our situation or problem in a more positive light while engaging in behaviors that solve our problems and reduce emotional stress.
These coping strategies are great ideas and they are useful to incorporate into our lives. But how exactly do we utilize these coping strategies? What I mean is these strategies are easier said than done. In a stressful situation how do you change your thought process to view a situation in a more positive light? Do you all have certain tactics you use to help minimize stress?
Sometimes it is too hard for me to turn off my thoughts or to redirect them to view a situation in a more positive light. My way of minimizing stress is exercise - the best way for me to release some of that initial stress pressure is to go for a long hard run where I can't do anything but focus on pushing forward. After a hard workout I am usually much more open to problem-solving and my problems don't seem as overwhelming.