Have you ever felt stuck in an endless cycle of disappointment? It doesn’t matter what’s going on in your life; it all just seems to be going wrong. 

We want you to know that you’re not alone.

From losing a job to battling substance abuse, or having a mental health disorder to a problematic relationship, sometimes, it just feels like we can’t catch a break. Our team at Seneca Health Services understands. So we’ve put together some tips for coping with a crisis. Learn more below.

What is a Crisis?

Crises vary from person to person. What one person may be able to handle could overwhelm someone else. Change, trauma, and stress can all bring on a crisis. 

Examples of crises include:

• An unfavorable health diagnosis.
• Natural disaster.
• The death of a family member.
• Other human tragedies.

Additionally, less severe events could also constitute a crisis for certain people.

What are Coping Mechanisms? 

Coping mechanisms are “the strategies people often use in the face of stress and/or trauma to help manage painful or difficult emotions. Coping mechanisms can help people adjust to stressful events while helping them maintain their emotional well-being.”

Unhealthy Coping

Just like what one person considers a crisis may not be for someone else, so are the many crisis responses one could experience. Everyone copes. The problem isn’t that we cope with crises, but how we cope. 

Dangerous coping methods may include avoiding issues, sleeping too much, dependent substance or alcohol use, impulsive spending, or over and under-eating. Unhealthy coping may present further complications to someone’s long-term physical or mental health. 

Healthy Coping

Healthy coping begins with you and your resources. No one can cope alone, so finding the right group or guide is essential. Here are a few things to consider when dealing with a crisis. 

Focus on What’s Important

In the aftermath of a crisis, getting through the day is an accomplishment. Remind yourself of the successes, and adjust your expectations to match what’s most important –– you can do it. 

Find Support

Find someone to bear your grief with you. This can be a friend, family member, or professional. It is a person who listens and speaks when you need advice. 

Lessen Stress Responses 

Find ways to destress. This could be through physical activity, hobbies, or something else. Unfortunately, stress can lead to anxiety, making coping more difficult. 

Process Your Emotions

Wallowing or bottling up your emotions could perpetuate a feeling of being “stuck.” Instead, find outlets to express your feelings, either in a journal or with a friend; this can help you cope. 

Take Care of Yourself

Be intentional about your diet, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and do other things to keep your body functioning at its best. 

Seek Help

Don’t navigate a crisis alone. It’s always better to err on the side of having extra help and a responsible way to take care of yourself.

Seeking Professional Help for Coping With a Crisis | Seneca Health Services 

At Seneca Health Services, we have over 40 years of experience providing behavioral health services throughout southeastern West Virginia. We offer crisis assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year to assist and support individuals, arrange and coordinate treatment services, and ensure that all of your basic needs are met. 

Our crisis services assist many patients in need of healthier coping mechanisms, including those who suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, job loss or stress, financial trouble, and more. 

You’re not alone. There is help for you. If you or someone you know needs crisis help, contact Seneca Health today or use the link provided here.  

Greenbrier County, West Virginia: 304.497.0500

Nicholas County, West Virginia: 304.872.2659

Pocahontas County, West Virginia: 304.799.6865

Webster County, West Virginia: 304.847.5425