Does therapy help learn strategies to cope with stressful times?

Hi. It sounds like it has been a stressful time for you. And what I particularly notice is multiple events, or a series of things, are creating somewhat of a cumulative effect. It is a very uncomfortable feeling-I like to describe feelings as comfortable and uncomfortable rather than good and bad because all feelings should be validated. We feel what we feel. However, you are right, we can respond differently to stress and/or anxiety. Sometimes our response can heighten our anxiety or lessen it. When you are having trouble sleeping, or stress is interfering with your actions and ability to focus, coping mechanisms can help!

There are multiple ways to handle situations like this. To name a few, there are breathing exercises to help you reset your thought process and calm your body. There is meditation as well. Many individuals find these helpful. There are also techniques you can do with your thinking that many find very helpful. This is often part of what's called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It is the idea that your thoughts, actions, and feelings are all linked. We have to sometimes break the cycle to create positive change. Finally, there are things we can do to remain healthy where stress doesn't effect us as noticeably-having good eating habits, getting out in nature or fresh air, sleep routines to help us rest better, and exercise. 

Sometimes even using self-help techniques and books, can help you feel better, or at least less uncomfortable. 

A counselor can help you with any of these strategies and assist you through the process. It is often a two-pronged solution-finding ways to change your behavior to better deal with what's currently going on in your life while also forming a meaningful relationship and talking about the issues at hand.

We can't control, many times, what happens to us. For instance, you may have encountered some situations that you could not change. But-you can control how you react.

I hope you found this information helpful. Feel free to reach out in the future! Best of luck as you navigate this more stressful time...