When there aren’t enough spa days to address self care needs
When stress lasts a long time, quick fixes like spa days or time off are rarely enough to create lasting relief. We spoke with Lena Pope Mental Health Therapist Yesika Moncada, LCSW, about practical, sustainable ways to care for your mental health and support your nervous system through difficult seasons.
Connection as a foundation
Human connection plays a critical role in emotional well-being. Spending time with friends, engaging with your community, or even sharing a brief, positive interaction with a stranger can help restore a sense of safety and belonging. Small moments of kindness can have a profound impact.
Giving your mind a break
Our brains are naturally wired to focus on potential threats, which can make stress feel all-consuming. Creating intentional breaks—whether through stepping away from a stressful situation, engaging in a different activity, or simply pausing—can help regulate your nervous system. “Imagine you’re on a long road-trip, sometimes you need to pull over,” shared Yesika.
The value of laughter and movement
Laughter can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and restoring balance. Watching a favorite show, enjoying a comedy special, or physical activities like walking or exercising can help interrupt cycles of tension. Even during difficult times, small moments of joy and gratitude can help rebalance perspective.
Process emotions, don’t avoid them
Acknowledging and naming your emotions is an essential step in managing stress. While it may be necessary to temporarily compartmentalize feelings to meet daily responsibilities, it is important to return to them later with intention. Talking with a trusted friend, working with a mental health professional, or journaling are all effective ways to process and externalize emotions. Avoiding difficult feelings over time can increase anxiety and cause stress to surface in other areas of life.
Finding what works for you
Coping strategies are not one-size-fits-all, Yesika reminds us. Some individuals find relief through productivity or organization, while others benefit from creative outlets such as music, art, or writing. Journaling, even informally, can help release pent-up thoughts and create space for reflection. The key is identifying what aligns with your needs and allowing yourself the flexibility to use different tools at different times.
Reframing and self-awareness
“Periods of stress often require adjustments in expectations and reflecting on what is within your control—and what is not,” said Yesika. It may be necessary to reassess priorities, ask for support, or allow certain responsibilities to take a temporary pause. Developing self-awareness through practices like therapy can provide valuable insight into personal coping styles and needs.
By incorporating connection, self-awareness, and intentional coping strategies into daily life, it is possible to move through stress with greater resilience and support long-term mental health.