Coping With Crisis

Times of crisis are crucial points in life that happen to everyone. At times, unfortunate events occur, such as the anticipated loss of a job, money problems, or of a significant relationship. It could be some loss of health, physical or mental illness, which has a serious impact on you and your “significant others”. The list goes on.

But sometimes a crisis situation also develops in the wake of good things.

A friend who has just landed her dream job and is about to marry the man of her dreams reported feeling anxious, depressed and unable to sleep. A young man who has just been accepted into Harvard suddenly gets headaches and starts being irritable with his girlfriend. Why? Why do some things go so wrong when everything is going right?

The answer is in the way human beings respond to change. Any life-changing event, even one usually considered to be happy, such as” the birth of a child, a job promotion, or a move to a new neighborhood, is a major transition that can become a crucial point in a person’s life. That means that, during crisis, anyone might feel the need for additional coping resources.

As we engage in a struggle to adapt to change, the increased burden can result in unwanted symptoms of stress. This requires immediate action to counteract the harmful effects of stress.

The Chinese word for “crisis” has the double meaning of “danger” and “opportunity” And while it is beneficial to view crisis as an opportunity and hope for positive change, the symptoms of stress if left untreated, can permanently prevent this desired outcome.

Stress-management problems can lead to unwanted of long term personal difficulties, including

• addictive habits
• irritability
• sleep disturbances,
• headache
• back pain
• concentration difficulties.
• depression
• insomnia
• irrational fears

Working with an experienced psychologist can help you:

• Develop a realistic understanding of the negatives and positives of the crisis
• Maximize your ability to cope with the issues involved
• Learn about your strengths and build up on what is already working
• Form a plan for managing future difficulties successfully

I employ a solution-focused, interpersonal approach to stress management. It is highly effective in assisting individuals and families in a varietyof life-changing transitions. The process usually takes only a short time (8 to 10 sessions) and involves a collaborative counseling relationship, based on mutual respect.

If, after reading this article, you have any questions about how these issues affect your life and how you might cope with them more effectively, it’s time to contact a psychologist. I would be happy to talk with you further on the phone. Just call 949-689-6334.