Feeling low or sad is pretty normal – we all have mood swings from time to time. That's if we know how to help ourselves during that hard time. Some people, unfortunately, can fall into some bad habits.
Research shows that 46% of Americans cope with stress by overeating or eating unhealthy foods. 29% said they either start drinking or drink more, and 16% turn to cigarettes as their coping mechanism.
As both alcohol and nicotine are popular bad habits to turn to when you're feeling sad, people are looking for more healthy ways to cope with low moods. Wanting to know what other people's strategies are, one netizen asked: "People who don't drink or smoke, what do you do when you are at your lowest?" Not all answers included healthy habits, that's for sure, but most of them are extremely relatable.
Bored Panda reached out to licensed psychologist Dr. Nathan Brandon. He told us more about why people turn to bad habits in times of stress and how people can cope with it in a healthy way.
We also had a conversation with the person who started this thread, u/vashisthaa. They opened up about the way they deal with stress – meditation. Read our chat with them and Dr. Brandon's expert insights below!
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"One of the main reasons people turn to smoking or drinking during difficult times is to manage stress," Dr. Nathan Brandon explains. "Both smoking and drinking are often perceived as quick fixes that provide immediate relief from the pressures of daily life."
"Nicotine in cigarettes and vapes can create a calming effect, while alcohol is frequently used to numb emotional pain or diffuse anxiety," Dr. Brandon told Bored Panda. "Additionally, societal norms and media portrayals can reinforce the idea that smoking or drinking is a valid way to cope, making these behaviors more likely to be adopted when someone is experiencing hardship. For some, these substances may offer a temporary escape from the reality of their problems, albeit with potentially harmful long-term consequences."
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Unhealthy habits like smoking or drinking aren't the only ways to cope with stress. "One powerful method is regular physical exercise," Dr. Brando says. "Jogging, cycling, or even walking releases endorphins and helps to reduce stress hormones. Relaxation practices, such as breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, can also help to reduce stress. Setting realistic goals and prioritizing tasks can also prevent overwhelming feelings of stress."
"Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor may also be beneficial for developing personalized coping mechanisms and addressing underlying issues contributing to stress," Dr. Brandon says. Truly, there is no shame in seeking professional help anymore. If you're feeling dejected, reach out to a mental health specialist and let them help you!
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If that's out of your financial capabilities at the moment or you're just too self-conscious to open up to a stranger, try socializing. "Spending time with friends or family, or even participating in community groups, can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation," Dr. Brandon says. "Journaling can also be a therapeutic way to express and process emotions."
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"It's important to remember that managing stress is not a one-size-fits-all approach," Dr. Nathan Brandon notes. "It's essential to find what works best for you and to regularly practice these strategies. Additionally, self-care practices such as getting enough sleep, taking breaks when needed, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy can also help to prevent stress from building up. Remember to be kind to yourself and prioritize your physical and mental well-being."
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We also were able to get in touch with the person who started this thread. The Redditor u/vashisthaa tells us they wanted to know how people online handle stress. "I wanted to start a debate about the variety of options that one can look for when it comes to handling their mental health without the use of any addictive substances."
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"Mental stress is very widespread today," the netizen told Bored Panda. "Work stress, family problems, health issues, fights, failures, loneliness, the list can go on, but there is no proper teaching regarding how we can handle our mind when we are anxious, worried, sad, or when we are filled with cravings."
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The Redditor is a volunteer at the Art Of Living organization, which has centers in over 180 countries and teaches people stress-elimination and self-development. "I am a teacher myself," u/vashisthaa tells us.
"Stress and unfavorable situations are inevitable. But the best way of living through them is to stay centered within and not let our mind[s] lose control. Do not forget that situations come and go, problems are part of life, [and] nothing is more important than our smile and peace of mind," the Redditor explains. "Do what is necessary to be done but with a stable mind. Being feverish and stressful are rather the worst ways to deal with any situation."
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"I practice meditation and work on my breath, doing breathing exercises. Besides that, in Art of Living, we teach a practice named Sudarshan Kriya, which has immense benefits. It's like an instant detoxifier, both mental and physical."
"The magic of breath is still unknown to many people," u/vashisthaa adds. "It should be taught to everyone so that they become efficient [in handling] their own emotions at least."
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