Positive Coping Thoughts

Positive Coping Thoughts

There are times in our lives when we are faced with both expected and unexpected situations and events that we find worrisome, challenging or frightening. These situations and events may or may not be within our control. And, they might be different for different people. A few common situations that might bring forth anxiety include interviewing for a new job, giving a presentation, taking a test, sending a child off to college, being pulled over by a police officer, flying on an airplane, or even watching a sad movie. 

Regardless of the event or situation, if it brings up anxiety, anger, or sadness, coping thoughts can give you perspective on the situation that help you to balance the situation with acceptance in the moment. Here are a few coping thoughts to consider when faced with expected and unexpected troublesome situations. Try out one of these statements or come up with ones that work for you. 

Statements to use in an unexpected situation: 

• I can be anxious and still deal with this situation.
• This situation won't last forever.
• My feelings are uncomfortable, but I can accept them.
• I belong here.

Statements to use when preparing for a stressful actiivty or event:

• I’ve done this before so I know I can do it again.
  
• When this is over, I’ll be glad that I did it.
  
• This may seem hard now, but it will become easier over time.
  
• It's possible to be anxious and still focus on the task at hand.  

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