Take it Easy: Overcoming the Stressors of Questioning Life

Nobody ever said life was easy, but what happens when life’s big questions – Where am I going? What will I do tomorrow? - leave you feeling stumped and confused? For some, it can feel like a battle with internal obstacles too large to face head-on.

Chances are, that if you find yourself in this situation, you may need help to push through it and find your way out. It is perfectly natural for our minds to take a break from reality when something overwhelms us, but that doesn’t mean there is no way out. There are several ways to approach this situation; some of them are useful and easy, while others may require a little more effort.

Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms

The first step towards recovering from the psychological and emotional stress of questioning life is understanding the maladaptive coping mechanisms that are getting in the way. If you find yourself frequently drinking alcohol or using drugs, engaging in high risk behavior, or withdrawing from social situations, these could all be signs of maladaptive coping mechanisms. It’s important to remember that while they may provide temporary relief, they don’t provide a long-term solution.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to be one of the most helpful treatments for this type of stress and anxiety. CBT involves solving problems by identifying faulty thought patterns and replacing them with more rational and positive thoughts. Through CBT, you can start to challenge your irrational beliefs and view your stressors from a more balanced perspective. A trained therapist can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout this process.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is another effective technique for dealing with stress. It involves paying attention to the present moment with an open, accepting attitude instead of letting your thoughts wander and ruminate on past or future events. Practicing mindfulness allows us to better control our reactions to stress and observe our thoughts without acting on them.

Meditation

Another useful tool for calming the mind and clearing away stress is meditation. Not only does it reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, it also has numerous health benefits such as improved sleep quality and increased focus. Meditation is especially helpful when it comes to big questions because it can allow us to detach from our usual thought patterns and see things with a fresh perspective.

Let go of the Stress

It is important to remember that in times of stress, it is ok to take a break and take care of yourself. Don’t be afraid to take time out to relax, read a book, or just take a few deep breaths. The big questions will still be waiting for you when you’re ready to face them.

Questioning life is an inevitable part of growth and navigating the difficult patches can be challenging. But with the right tools and support, we can all work towards finding the answers that best suit us and begin to experience inner peace. Embrace the stress and uncertainty, and let go of the pressures. Take it easy and watch the world slowly reveal its secrets to you.