Coping Skills
What is the difference between emotion-focused and problem-focused coping?
Emotion-focused coping manages emotional reactions; problem-focused coping addresses the source of stress.
What is the difference between self-care and self-indulgence?
Self-care supports long-term well-being; self-indulgence provides short-term comfort but may not promote health.
How do neurotransmitters influence mood regulation?
They transmit signals between neurons; imbalances can impact emotions and mental health.
Why is emotional safety important in relationships?
It allows people to express feelings and needs without fear of judgment or rejection.
True or False: Mental illness only affects people with a family history of it.
False — environmental stressors and biology both contribute.
When might avoidance be a temporary healthy coping strategy?
When a situation feels overwhelming and a brief pause allows time to regulate emotions before problem-solving.
How does consistent self-care influence stress hormone levels?
It helps lower cortisol levels and supports balance in the nervous system.
What is the role of the amygdala in emotional responses?
It detects threats and triggers fear or stress responses.
What is one example of an unhealthy communication pattern that damages trust?
Passive-aggressive comments or stonewalling (withdrawing from discussion).
True or False: Mental health recovery means never experiencing symptoms again.
False — recovery is managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Explain how deep breathing or grounding techniques affect the nervous system.
They activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering heart rate and calming the body.
Give one example of preventative self-care rather than reactive self-care.
Scheduling regular exercise or therapy sessions before stress escalates.
How does the prefrontal cortex help us respond to emotional triggers?
It regulates impulses, aids decision-making, and helps evaluate emotional reactions.
How do boundaries protect both people in a relationship?
They define acceptable behaviors, prevent resentment, and maintain mutual respect.
Why is the idea that “therapy is only for people with serious problems” a myth?
Therapy supports anyone seeking growth, self-awareness, or stress management.
How can identifying cognitive distortions help improve your coping skills?
Recognizing distorted thoughts allows you to reframe them, reducing emotional distress.
How can poor self-care impact emotional regulation and decision-making?
It can increase fatigue, irritability, and impulsivity due to reduced mental and physical resources.
What happens in the brain when chronic stress goes unaddressed?
The body overproduces cortisol, impairing memory, emotional control, and immune function.
Describe how codependency can interfere with healthy relationships.
One person sacrifices their own needs to care for another, leading to imbalance and emotional exhaustion.
Explain why mental illness is not a sign of weakness.
It’s a health condition influenced by biology, environment, and psychology—not character flaws.
Why is developing multiple coping strategies more effective than relying on one?
Because different stressors require different responses, and flexibility builds long-term resilience.
Why is individualized self-care important in recovery?
Because each person’s needs, triggers, and energy levels differ; personalized routines sustain recovery more effectively.
How does neuroplasticity relate to recovery from trauma or mental illness?
The brain can form new neural connections through therapy, learning, and positive behaviors, supporting healing.
How can assertive communication improve relationship quality?
It promotes honesty and respect by expressing needs clearly without aggression or passivity.
Why can stigma around mental illness prevent recovery?
It discourages people from seeking help, leading to isolation and untreated symptoms.