This is an excerpt from a book I recently completed called Get We Get Better: 48 Treatment Options for Chronic Depression. Following the mental health journey of depression survivor Ruth, it offers numerous practical, evidence-based strategies for improving your physical, behavioral, vocational, relational, cognitive and emotional health. For updates and availability info, subscribe for free to the right. I post two or three articles per month, mostly on the topic of depression.
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Treatment option 42: Using constructive distraction
Yes, you’re allowed to watch that movie, play that game or otherwise zone out for a time. Life is hard. Go easy on yourself when doing so seems like the most healthy choice. A big part of emotional regulation is mastering the art of moving in and out of feelings-focused and thoughts-focused moments. In fact, this might be one of the hallmarks of emotional strength and good mental health.
When you’re able to acknowledge and experience a difficult feeling, then after a moment move away from it and back again as needed, you reinforce to your brain that emotions are manageable. You learn how to avoid overwhelm by giving yourself time to regroup and regulate. The key is to pay attention to your intuitive wisdom.
Do you need to spend some time journaling or talking through your feelings? Or would it be best to simply place your mind elsewhere for a time? With some reflection, you might be able to determine if it would be best to take a breather and focus on something outside yourself, or if you’ve been overusing this strategy lately in order to avoid your feelings.
If desired, add “use constructive distraction” to your list of emotional coping skills. You might also want to write down more specific ideas to try.
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No gurus. No easy answers. Just real stories from people on the path. Get The Power of Acceptance: One Year of Mindfulness and Meditation at your preferred book retailer today.
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Babies come. But babies don't go. Get Fights You’ll Have After Having a Baby: A Self-Help Story on Amazon now.
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