Problem-Solving to Manage Stress

Overview

Problem-solving can help you overcome complex stressful events. Here are the basic steps you can use.

1. Identify all aspects of a stressful event.

   Think about your behavior, thoughts, and feelings. For example, if you have just been laid off from your job, you need to identify:

   • Behaviors, such as the need to look for another job, earn money for your family, and make other adjustments in your life.
   • Negative thoughts, such as "I'll never get another job."
   • Negative feelings, such as anger and depression.
   • How your body responds, such as fatigue or trouble sleeping.

   You can then find coping strategies, such as talking with a counselor about your feelings of anger or depression.

2. Brainstorm some options.
   • Think of as many solutions as you can, even if they seem very hard to achieve.
   • Don't criticize any solution.
   • Combine solutions.
3. Evaluate your options.

   When rating your solutions, take into account the:

   • Likelihood of being able to carry it out and succeed.
   • Cost in time and energy.
   • Effect of the solution on other people.
4. Act on the best option.

   Figure out the steps you need to take, and then act.