How to Get Through Tough Times?

What can you do to get through tough times?

There are lots of things you can do to deal with difficult circumstances and find solutions to your problems. Here are some practical tips on how to get through tough times:

Recognize when you aren’t coping

Sometimes men find it difficult to realize that they are stressed and that they might need some help to get through tough times. Being aware of how you react to stress can help you to recognize when you might need to get help from others or take time out to relax. Try and pay attention to your body, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, out of control or if you’re feeling any changes in your physical health, emotions, and behavior, it’s time to do something about it.

Take care of yourself

Tension and stress can have a negative impact on your health. During difficult times, it’s important to look after yourself by finding time to relax, eating healthily, exercising regularly and doing activities that you enjoy. Exercise is particularly important, as it relieves aggression and tension and helps you to sleep better. Don’t forget to do things that you enjoy and to take time out to relax. This can help to clear your head: read a book, watch a movie, listen to music, catch up with mates or go for a walk.

Talk about it

It might be hard, talking about your problems with someone you trust, friend, colleague, partner, parent but it can really help. Having someone listen to your problems can help to relieve stress, give you some perspective allowing you to let off steam and release negative emotions. You might even find that the person you talk to has gone through a similar situation and may have ways of coping that you haven’t thought of. There are plenty of other people who can help if you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone you know.

Stay connected

It is important to stay in touch with friends and family, particularly during tough times. Catching up with loved ones and mates, in person, over the phone or via social networking sites or email, makes you feel valued and helps you from feeling alone and isolated. Getting involved in your community can also help you to stay connected, you could join a local group or club, try a new hobby or even consider volunteering to help others. Helping others is a great way to take your mind off things, meet new people and get some perspective.

Reduce use of alcohol and drugs, including caffeine and nicotine

Some men use alcohol or drugs to try to escape their problems or to try and relax. However, drugs and alcohol can impair your judgment, leading to other risky behavior and poor decisions. They can have a damaging effect on your relationships with your friends, family and your work. They can also have a serious impact on your physical health and can lead to agitation, aggression and mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression or psychosis.