Coping styles

Carers with an active coping style actively try to alleviate their stress. They work at controlling their response to things that cause them stress so they can change the nature of the stressor or how they think about it.

Activities that indicate an active coping style can include:
• taking care of yourself – body, mind and spirit
• talking with someone about your concerns
• recording your feelings in a journal
• allocating time each day to do something you enjoy (e.g. getting a massage, listening to music, watching a movie)
• developing your interests, and engaging in work, education or hobbies.

Carers with an avoidant coping style disconnect from the situation rather than working through it. They do not directly address their stress.
This coping style does not allow for effective stress management.

Activities that indicate an avoidant coping style can include:
• using alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs to relax
• over- or under-eating
• procrastinating
• blaming others for the stress you feel
• angry outbursts