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What is Smoked Out of a Glass Pipe?

People have been smoking out of pipes for many years, however, throughout the years pipes have changed into other materials like glass. Furthermore, what is being smoked in pipes has also evolved.

Pipe smoking goes back to at least the 16th century and was used in many different cultures. Many native cultures would smoke pipes during rituals or in tribal gatherings. After the discovery of tobacco, smoking out of pipes became even more popular. In fact, tobacco became the most popular substance to smoke out of pipes.

In the 19th century, other substances like opium, became prevalent to smoke. Following that, psychoactive drugs began to be consumed as well, via pipe. Since then other drugs have become popular to smoke through a pipe. Drugs like crack cocaine, methamphetamines, DBT, PCP and cannabis are often times smoked in a glass pipes.

Smoking out of a glass pipe is often times the preferred way to consume illegal drugs since it is more intense and more comfortable than snorting a substance through nasal passage ways.  

Glass pipes can vary in design, however here are the most typical ones used for various substances.

Marijuana pipe:

Crack-cocaine pipe:

Methamphetamine pipe:

PCP pipe:

If you have seen a loved one with one of these pipes please ask a professional for support. Glass Pipes like the ones listed above can be an indication of a serious drug problem and substance abuse.

Spirituality in Addiction and Substance Abuse Recovery

We often hear that connecting to some form of spirituality is imperative in addiction and substance abuse recovery.

But what does that even mean and why is it so important?

People often mix up spirituality and religion, however, both of these terms differ in meaning. Spirituality is not the same thing as religion. Religion is a belief in a super controlling power like God and is derived from a specific system of faith and worship. Spirituality is different and is instead described as the quality of being connected to  something intangible like the human spirit or soul.

When someone is addicted to drugs and alcohol, that individual loses real connection and instead their drug or substance of choice becomes their only form of connection. Regaining or developing a sense of spirituality during recovery can help someone feel connected again to themselves and life. Feeling connected to something beyond oneself can provide a sense of purpose and self worth while providing support. But what does this even mean and how do you find spirituality?

Spirituality is not a one size fits all concept and can mean various things to different people. Some people find spirituality through other spiritual leaders and ideas like Buddhism. Others practice mindfulness to stay present and connected to the moment or work the steps in the 12 step program.

The concept of spirituality is often times a source of frustration, especially for those in addiction recovery. Often times, individuals in recovery expect a spiritual awakening when in reality it is a more gradual process.

Addiction leads to disconnection which is the sheer opposite of spirituality. In essence, spirituality is connection. This means serving others, developing and fostering deep relationships with others and healing the mind, body and soul. Spirituality means that individuals let love guide them, not their addiction.

So what does spirituality in addiction look like for you?  

It is important that individuals in recovery figure out what spirituality looks like for themselves. This could mean that you spend lots of time reading and learning about various religions and spiritual figures for guidance. Perhaps you already have a connection to a religion in which it was impaired during your addiction. Whether it is reconnecting or discovering spirituality for the first time, it is important that individuals take the time and effort to define their own spiritual connection.  At The Last House we have a program that encourages a spiritual solution to addiction.

Self Harm and Addiction

Self harm and addiction have a cyclical relationship. Often times those who struggle with self harm can become solely addicted to the release that hurting oneself provides. Other times those struggling with self harm can also become addicted to drugs and alcohol. A study discovered that close to 10% of individuals struggling with self harm also abuse drugs and substances.

What is self harm?

Self harm is when someone purposely inflicts self injury or harm to their bodies through mutilation without the intent to kill oneself. Someone who inflicts self injury is usually secretive about this and will hide their injuries underneath clothing. Individuals that harm themselves usually do this with sharp objects like knives and razors. Other ways that self harm is inflicted is through burning oneself, ripping hair out, piercing the skin, picking at wounds to avoid healing, scratching, poisoning, punching, slapping or even breaking bones.

Why would someone hurt themselves intentionally?

You might be thinking, why would someone do that to themselves?! Typically, hurting oneself sounds like the last thing someone would want to do. However, someone who is in severe emotional distress and with limited coping skills may turn to self harm as a release from the emotional pain. Often times, self harm is associated with other mental illness or disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder. Self harm can lead to the body’s release of pain killing hormones and endorphins which can feel like a form of release to the individual inflicting self injury. Sometimes the physical pain caused by self harm acts as a distraction from the emotional pain. Furthermore, self harm can feel like a form a self control when other things in life are out of control, or a form of punishment for perceived faults, and a way to express internal pain.

Who struggles with self harm?

Teenagers and young adults are usually the individuals that struggle with self harm. Both of these developmental periods are tough with a lot of peer and societal pressure. If these individuals never learned healthy coping skills, self harm may feel like the only relief. Furthermore, females are also more at risk for self harm however it is not entirely clear as to why.

What causes self harm?

Just like most maladaptive behaviors or mental disorders, there is not simple cause that leads someone to inflict self injury. However, a combination of unstable and abusive environments, genetics and biological dispositions to certain mental illness/disorders can explain how self harm develops as a coping skill. It is important to note that self harm is not itself a mental illness and instead an indicator of very poor coping skills. There are various risk factors that leave someone vulnerable to self harm. Someone who has experienced sexual abuse, childhood abuse, abandonment, neglect, dissociation, psychiatric disorders, and substance abuse/addiction. Strong emotions such as worthlessness, guilt, shame, loneliness, panic, anger, self hatred of confusion can also put someone at risk for self harm. Furthermore, someone who is struggling with addiction or substance abuse, are a lot more likely to hurt themselves since they have less control over themselves when under the influence.

Signs/symptoms:

• Noticeable wounds that cannot be explained
• Clothing that is very covering
• Isolation
• Depression
• Locking oneself in a bathroom or bedroom
• Scars or fresh cuts, bruises and marks
• Excessive rubbing of an area
• Hiding objects such as razor blades
• Impulsivity and instability
• Identity issues

Treatment:

Because self harm is usually hidden, it can be difficult to diagnose and identify. Once self harm has been identified there are numerous treatment options that can give someone a sense of control over and relieve some of their intense emotions. If you suspect a loved one is hurting themselves it is important to seek professional attention immediately. Often times, those struggling with self harm will go to rehabilitation centers or hospitals to ensure that the individual doesn’t severely injure themselves.  Medication can minimize intense emotions and provide more emotional balance. Psychotherapies like psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy are the most common modalities used to treat someone that self harms.

Recovering from self harm and addiction:  

Individuals struggling with self harm and addiction can complicate treatment. It is imperative that both of these co-occurring issues are simultaneously treated and are given proper attention. It is also important to differentiate between the addiction hurting oneself and addiction to actual substances and drugs. At the end of the day, self harm and substance abuse need to be replaced with healthier coping skills which can be achieved in therapy and at treatment centers.

Thinking Disorders and Substance Abuse

What is a thinking disorder?

Thought disorder is a term used to describe illnesses that are associated with an impaired capacity to sustain coherent discourse and is reflected in an individual’s verbal and written communication. This mental health condition affects a person’s beliefs, thoughts and perceptions. Thinking disorders have two distinguishable components: Disordered thinking and delusional thinking. Those with disordered thinking struggle to think straight and thoughts come and go quickly. These individuals struggle to pay attention and connect their thoughts logically and reflect this through incoherent or hard to follow conversation. Individuals with schizophrenia often times experience disordered thinking. Delusional thinking occurs when someone believes something that is clearly or most likely false. For example, believing that aliens are following you. This delusion is strongly believed despite the lack of evidence and reflects the person’s abnormality of thought content. These are different than overvalued ideas which are unreasonable ideas with some level of doubt associated with it. Individuals suffering with depression, schizophrenia, delirium, psychosis, and manic depression are more likely to experience thought disorders.

Diagnosis:

This mental disorder is not actually it’s own diagnosis but rather a symptom and characteristic of other mental illnesses. Thought disorders are characterized and diagnosed by the following symptoms-

Confusion and disorientation

Flight ideas- When an individual switches from one unrelated idea to another during a conversation

Circumstantiality- long-winded and convoluted speech

Word salad-Words that are inappropriately strung together

Difficulty speaking

Blocking- When an individual chooses not to address something that is in conflict

Frequent interruptions in a person’s train of thought

Belief that a person is an entity

Delusions-Experience strange thoughts and have fixed illogical beliefs

Hallucinations- Individuals hear and see things that aren’t really there.

Paranoia-Someone fixates on fears and skeptical thoughts.

Derailment-ideas that get further and further apart from each other and from discussion.

Inability to follow a logical train of thought

Addiction and Substance Abuse:

Drug use and alcohol can evoke thought disorder behavior. If someone is heavily under the influence they can not think clearly and may experience things like paranoia or other mental disorder symptoms. Many substances mimic mental illnesses associated with thinking disorders. For example, individuals under the influence of hallucinogenic drugs, like LSD, will most likely experience hallucinations. Furthermore, individuals can experience characteristics of thinking disorders when withdrawing. Some mental disorders are caused from drug use and symptoms never fully go away after treatment. It is also common for someone to struggle with a substance-induced disorder and other co-occurring mental disorders. Detoxification is a necessary first step in recovery. This process rids the body of toxins and substances. This is done so medically and clinically. Once an individual struggling with substance abuse has detoxed they can then be continuously evaluated for other mental health issues.

Treatment:

Treatment varies depending on the type of thinking disorder and within the context that it is occurring. For example, CBT and behavioral therapy is often used for disordered thinking. Medication can be used to alleviate thinking disorders in someone with depression of anxiety. Someone with schizophrenia will also take psychotropic medications which may also improve thinking disorders. Psychotherapy is also another tool used to help better understand the root of the thinking patterns.

What does addiction look like in older adulthood?

Senior Citizens With Addiction Drug addiction and alcoholism among older adults is a rapidly growing issue that is often underestimated and not give the proper attention. Most people don’t imagine that their elderly loved one could be at risk for substance abuse and addiction. However, there are many risk factors that can lead an older adult into addiction. Older adults, also known as senior citizens or the elderly, are known as individuals above the age of 65. Senior Citizens with Addiction are usually classified into two different groups: the late on-set group and the hardy survivors. The late on-set group are elderly individuals that develop an addiction to substances or alcohol later on in life, while the hardy survivors are the individuals who have been abusing substances and alcohol for many years and all the way into their senior years.

Why are older adults at risk?

Many changes that occur in later adulthood can trigger a senior citizen to abuse substances and alcohol. The challenges that occur in later adulthood can pile up and lead someone to cope in unhealthy ways. Some of these risk factors include:

• Retirement
  • Leaving a job or being let go can be extremely stressful and hard to handle. A lot of people find that their job is a huge part of their identity. Letting a job go can leave someone feeling empty. Not to mention the amount of free time that is now available can leave some vulnerable to boredom, depression, loneliness, etc.
• Loss of financial stability
  • Some elderly individuals are let go from their jobs or their retirement funds do not support them enough and then find themselves in a financial crisis. Medical bills and extra support like nurses, add up and easily empty pockets. The financial stress can push someone over the edge into substance abuse.
• Death of loved ones
  • Grief is a big part of older adulthood. Many senior citizens lose their friends, partners, animal companions, and other loved ones because of health issues and old age. This loss can be devastating and some try to replace their loved ones with drinking or using drugs.  
• Being placed in a nursing home
  • Changing from living independently to a nursing home can stir up a lot of negative emotions. It is difficult to give up independence and let others come in and help. Furthermore, nursing homes can be dysfunctional and abusive at times. If someone is living in a destructive nursing home, substances and alcohol may be the only source of comfort for an elderly person.
• Health issues
  • Physical health and mental health declines as individuals age. Some develop things like Alzheimer’s, depression and chronic physical pain from things like arthritis. Deterioration in health can push folks into addiction. Most prescription drug abuse occurs by accident. An individual will be prescribed something for a health issue and will become dependent on it or perhaps the medication interacts with other medications and causes harmful effects.  Furthermore, growing older slows down the body’s ability to process medication which can make older adults more prone to becoming addicted to a substance and harmful side effects.
• Medications
  • Older adults are often times prescribed opioids and benzodiazepines which both have a high potential for addiction. Without knowledge of how these medications work and interact with others, individuals can experience negative effects.
• Family conflict and transitions
  • With age, roles in families can change. Someone who was once the patriarchy of the family may now become someone less involved because of their older age. This role change can be hard to adjust to. Transitions like children growing into adults and moving on with their own lives can be really difficult for older adults to adjust to. Individuals may feel lonely and grief with their children move on and create their own lives outside of their parents.

What are the symptoms:

Drugs and alcohol may actually mimic other health issues that older adults experience which can make diagnosis difficult. Things like dementia can look similar to someone being heavily under the influence. This can lead to misdiagnosis and mistreatment. Often times people assume that older individuals are senile and ignore signs of substance abuse or addiction. There are addiction and substance abuse signs to look for in senior citizens with addiction which include:

• Memory loss or problems
• Filling the same prescription from more than one doctor
• Changes in sleeping and eating habits
• Slurred speech
• Chronic health complaints
• Unexplained bruises
• Hostility, irritability or depression
• Solitary behavior
• Poor hygiene
• Loss of interest in hobbies or interests
• Heavy drinking
• Confusion
• Deteriorating relationships
• Often talk about medicine and have anxiety around it
• Sneak or hide medicine
• Taking medicine without reading the label
• Have struggled with substance abuse and alcoholism before

Senior Citizens With Addiction – Pathway to Recovery:

Addiction and substance abuse is harmful no matter what age you are; however, it is even more harmfuAl to older adults. Older adults may be unaware of the severe impact that substance abuse may have on them. It is imperative that addiction and substance abuse is diagnosed and treated and in a way that is sensitive to this unique stage in life. Senior Citizens with Addiction
tend to lack social support, especially when recovering. Treatment centers and supports groups must provide specialized support when working with older adults. Although age is an important factor in recovery, treatment from addiction and substance abuse is always possible no matter how old someone is.

The Different Types of Addiction Treatment Centers:

Private, Non-profit and Government Funded

Treatment can be costly and often times the reason that individuals don’t seek treatment for addiction or substance abuse. Not all treatment centers are a good fit for individuals which can also steer individuals away from recovery. Individuals should consult with many treatment centers before deciding on one. During this time, it is important to ask questions, address any concerns and express what the individual is looking for. It’s important to understand the varying types of addiction treatment centers so that an individual can find the one best suited to their financial and personal needs.

Types of addiction treatment centers:

Private Treatment Centers- These recovery facilities are privately owned, provide a high level of care and are usually the most expensive and effective. Private addiction treatment centers can be in-patient and out- patient. Individuals at in-patient programs live at the center for a duration of time while individuals in out- patient check in and out of the program. In private facilities, detox is usually included, which is an important first step in recovery. During this phase, individuals are able to rid their body of the toxins from drugs and alcohol while under medical care. After detox, individuals participate in group and individual therapy. Often times other therapeutic activities are offered in addition to therapy. Private addiction treatment centers require a time commitment and a financial commitment. The financial commitment can be difficult to meet but sometimes insurance will provide partial or full coverage. Insurance does provide some complications and individuals are not always guaranteed full or partial coverage. This can create stress and interrupt the recovery process. Despite the financial difficulties associated with private drug treatment centers, this form of treatment is often the most successful and favored.

Non-profit Substance Abuse Treatment: There are many non-profit recovery centers offered all over the country. This form of treatment is a lot more affordable than privately owned addiction recovery centers. Non-profit centers offer a variety of options such as, in-patient, out- patient, short-term, long-term and detox care. It is not uncommon for there to be a waitlist for a non-profit program which can be frustrating, however a social worker may steer you in the direction of other available non-profit treatment centers. Individuals are admitted to non-profit drug rehabs based on met qualifications. These treatment programs tend to be less individualized as private programs but are still very effective.

Government-Funded Treatment: This form of treatment is a great option for those who don’t have financial means to afford treatment and for those who don’t meet qualifications for non-profit treatment programs. Services are free or based on an individual’s income. Government-funded programs can offer many services like long-term, short-term, in-patient, out-patient, etc. These programs are monitored by the government and shut down if standards are not met to help protect recovering individuals. There are some drawbacks to these types of substance abuse treatment programs. Some government-funded programs don’t offer certain services needed for some individuals. It’s important to consult with these programs before making a decision.

Long wait lists exist for both non-profit and government-funded programs. Because of this both substance abuse and addiction programs can rush people through the recovery process. This can interrupt the recovery process and people may be forced to leave before they are actually ready. Both are state funded which means they must use and follow state approved treatment methods. This is intended to serve as a protection to ensure effective treatment but often times these techniques are outdated.

Not all treatment centers are created equal and each program has its own unique qualities with advantages and draw backs. Deciding on a treatment center is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. Be sure to consult and research before committing yourself to a treatment center.

What is drug detox center?

A person may feel mentally ready for sobriety and recovery, however their body may be so dependent on their drug of choice which can interfere with recovery and can actually be life threatening. Becoming substance free is a process that cannot always be done cold turkey. Drugs and alcohol are actually very dangerous to quit and need to be done gradually with the help of medical professionals. Some drugs are so powerful that the body cannot physically handle the natural detoxing process. At drug detox centers, individuals are carefully monitored physically and mentally while their withdrawal symptoms are managed. Some drugs leave the body’s system faster than others while others can take many days. Depending on the substance and drug, individuals can stay at a detox center anywhere from just a couple days to a week. Individuals can also go to out-patient detox centers depending on their needs. Detoxing is the safest way for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction to move past drugs and alcohol. During the detox process, individuals are confronted with physical and emotional withdrawals. These sensations can be managed with other medications and therapy. Some substance abuse and addiction recovery centers provide detox or are connected to detox centers. This makes the process from detox to recovery swift and easy. Individuals are usually sent to detox centers before joining a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. Detox centers are a necessary part of the recovery process however it must be paired with a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. Once detoxed, it is very difficult to remain sober without any after care. Finding a detox center does not have to be a difficult one. Visiting with a doctor can help you understand the physical damage that the drug use has done. They can also refer individuals to detox centers. Many treatment centers include detox as well. Detox center databases are on the internet and can be easily searched and accessed. Most detox centers are covered by insurance, offer payment plans and are willing to work with individuals and their financial needs.

What is expressive art therapy?

expressive art therapy is a creative intervention used to treat mental health and behavioral challenges. This modality uses various disciplines of art such as art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, dance therapy, creative writing therapy, play therapy and sand-play therapy. The combination of these creative processes help individuals, groups and communities grow, heal, illuminate, create, and develop clarity. expressive art therapy draws on many modalities within the context of psychotherapy and medicinal practices.

Types:

Art Therapy- Uses visual arts and media in therapy.

Music Therapy- Music is used to improve psychological, physical, cognitive and social functioning.

Drama Therapy- Uses theatrical interventions to help create personal narratives and act out emotions.

Dance Movement Therapy- Movement is used to connect the mind to the body.

Creative Writing Therapy- Poetry and other forms of writing are used to provide relief.

Play Therapy- Play is used to resolve interpersonal issues.

Sand-play Therapy- Sand and figurines are used to explore the subconscious.

When is it used and what does it treat?

Adults and children both benefit and participate in expressive art therapy. It is often times used for children with behavioral issues such as ADHD. Studies show that expressive art therapy has positively impacted children with impulse control issues and anger issues.

Children and adults with developmental disabilities, eating disorders, brain injuries, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic medical issues benefit greatly from expressive art therapy. Additionally, expressive art therapy is helpful for individuals with social struggles or high levels of stress. This creative expression is a great outlet for releasing anger and other negative emotions. Substance abuse recovery centers and addiction treatment centers use this modality to help individuals create and tell their personal narrative. Individuals are able to access and express parts of themselves, such as memories, into tangible forms.

What to expect:

Typically, an expressive arts therapist relies on their mental health training and creativity. Instinct is a necessary tool when deciding which strategy to use when treating an individual. After meeting with the client(s), the therapist selects a form that is best suited for the clients needs. For example, music therapy is often times used when treating individuals with impulse control disorders. The therapist will provide a broad description of the process but will let the individual or group pick the topic and other details involved. For example, a therapist may suggest that a client struggling with addiction, draw a picture of who they become on drugs and who they are without drugs. Throughout the session, the therapist is observing the client’s process and uses interpretation to draw conclusions. expressive art therapy can be done in schools, treatment centers, private practices and in communities.

Substance Abuse:

Despite the minimal amount of research, expressive art therapy appears to be widely used and beneficial when treating those with addiction. Many treatment centers incorporate expressive art therapy along with other modalities. Some studies have evidence to support the combination of a 12 –step program along with expressive art therapy. expressive art therapy has also been shown to be quite successful when treating youth with substance abuse issues. While there is a need for more research, expressive art therapy can at least provide a platform for creativity and expression.

Resources:

https://www.ieata.org

Guided imagery, sometimes referred to as guided meditation, visualization, mental rehearsal, and guided self hypnosis, is technique used by mental health professionals. This technique connects the body and mind by using imagination and mental images to evoke emotions and deep relaxation. This gentle and powerful approach can also be traced back to Ancient Greece, Chinese medicine and American Indian traditions. Throughout history, guided imagery has taken on many forms, such as psychodrama which was developed in the U.S. during the 1940’s. Other forms of meditation have been effective in treating chronic pain and other serious physical illnesses. The Academy of Guided Imagery was founded in 1989 and advocates for the positive impact that meditation has on both mental and physical health. There are many benefits to this therapy such as enhancing an individual’s coping skills and stimulating bodily functions. Guided imagery is done by taping into all five senses and connecting the visual part of the brain and the nervous system. Meditation imagery can be done independently, in individual therapy and in group therapy. Many experience guided imagery independently through books, apps, audio recordings, and videos. If done with a professional, a client usually begins guided meditation lying down or sitting comfortably while closing their eyes. When the visual cortex of the brain is activated while an individual’s eyes are closed, physical and emotional states are surfaced which elicits physiological changes that aim to improve health. Before the process, the therapist and client meet and discuss the symptoms and the client’s goals. Next, the therapist will begin the session with calming music or a soothing mantra so that the individual enters a relaxed state. Once, the individual is in deep relaxation a set of instructions are given that leads the individual towards images and methods or relieving any negative symptoms. This can happen in a number of ways. Images can include problem solving and or finding relief or images may be more random and left for interpretation. It is also common for someone to fall asleep during guided meditation since it puts individuals into deep relaxation. A session usually lasts just a couple minutes and can be done everyday as needed. Anyone can benefit from guided imagery however, research shows that those struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, PTSD, inter and intra personal relationship issues, and negative habits benefit the most from guided meditation . In order to facilitate meditation, a health professional must become licensed by The Academy of Guided Imagery and complete long hours of training and independent study. Although there is plenty of research to support guided imagery, there are also professionals that feel that it evokes false memories. Despite some of the limitations, guided imagery can at least provide deep relaxation to all.

To find a guided imagery therapist visit: http://www.academyforguidedimagery.com/

What are Coping Skills in Recovery?

Coping Skills in Recovery are methods that individuals use to deal with stressful situations and sensations. Everyone, including animals have coping skills. People’s coping skills consist of the thoughts and actions that one uses to deal with distress or threats. Coping Skills in Recovery are both learned and innate and can be healthy or unhealthy. For example, children learns a lot by observing the people around them. A parent may model drinking alcohol as a coping skill which is something the child may adopt later on in life. This is why it is important that we learn healthy coping skills, like talking about your feelings, and model those skills for children. Innate coping skills consist of the ways we naturally respond to stress subconsciously. This can include ways our body physically responds to stress like releasing certain hormones so that we can react appropriately or blocking certain memories out due to trauma. Most people have various types of coping strategies which are used for different situations.

Types of coping skills:

There are two types of coping strategies: Problem-focused strategies and emotion-focused strategies. Problem-focused coping deals with stress in practical ways by aiming to remove the stressor through problem solving. An example would include talking to HR if you are experiencing an issue at work. Emotion-focused coping aims to reduce the negative emotions associated with stress. This type of coping is great when an individual has very little control over a situation. Examples include meditation and practicing mindfulness. Both types of coping strategies are important and beneficial when done in healthy ways and simultaneously. Problem-focused and emotion-focused coping can occur in unhealthy ways such as drinking too much caffeine if you are tired or using alcohol and drugs to cope with negative emotions. Substance abuse happens to be one of the most notorious unhealthy coping strategies. Unhealthy coping strategies can lead to health problems and can worsen the stressor or issue. Although it may take some time to create healthier habits, it is never too late to adopt more healthy coping skills.

How to gain healthier coping skills:

It can be hard to gain healthier coping skills if an individual is unware of their own healthy coping strategies to begin with. The first step in gaining new coping skills is identifying the already existing ones. Next, one can assess how effective those strategies are and if they actually work in the long run. Individuals can stop and think before they react to their stressor. Often times the ways in which we cope are reactive and instinctual. For example, some people will overeat or reach for comfort food to cope with stress without even thinking. It may be a good idea to list personal stressors and then list the ways in which you cope. From there, you can assess which coping strategies are healthy or unhealthy. Individuals can find healthy coping skills by researching on the internet, talking with a mental health professional or loved ones.

Healthy coping skills: