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What are coping skills?

Coping skills are the healthy methods a person uses to deal with stress or strong emotions. Coping skills are things that we can do in the moment, when we are feeling lousy, to help us turn down the volume of our emotions and avoid getting overwhelmed. Student benefit from the use of coping skills as they navigate the unique blend of social situations, academics, and mental health they encounter in schools.

Coping skills provide an entry point for kids to dig deeper into the issues that are really bothering them.

There are millions of coping skills that fit into 4 main categories:

Relaxation: These skills help kids to soothe and relax the body, which can in turn help the mind feel more calm. Because anxiety symptoms are often felt strongly in the body, relaxation is especially helpful for anxious kids. A few common relaxation coping skills are:

• Soothing activities, like a warm bath or a cup of herbal tea

• Deep breathing exercises

• Progressive muscle relaxation

• Guided visualization

Mindfulness: Mindfulness skills help a child to stay in the here-and-now, rather than worrying about the future or thinking about the past. Mindfulness helps children to focus their attention on the present, be more aware of their feelings and surroundings, and feel more grounded during times of intense stress. These skills include:

• Meditation

• Observing and describing your surroundings

• Panic attack coping skills like the 5-4-3-2-1 technique

• Sensory play, for younger children

Safe Ways to Express Feelings: Sometimes, strong feelings just need to be let out. These skills help kids vent their feelings in a safe way that isn’t destructive or hurtful to themselves or other people. This is especially helpful for kids who experience strong anger, since uncontrolled anger might lead to hitting, breaking toys, or yelling at others. Here are some healthier ways to express emotions:

• Journaling

• Non-aggressive physical activity

• Creating art

• Assertive communication skills

Positive, Rewarding Activities: Fun is good for our mental health. Doing things that give us a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment are key to giving meaning to life and preventing depression. Kids need to be around other kids in order to grow and develop emotionally, so social opportunities are important coping skills for them, too. Here are a few examples of activities that fit the bill:

• Sports and recreational activities

• Hobbies that encourage a sense of accomplishment

• Spending time with supportive friends

• Volunteering

https://www.katielear.com/child-therapy-blog/2020/11/10/what-are-coping-skills