Coping Skills: Diversion
This blog is #1 of 4 in a series about types of coping skills. A diversion skill is a type of coping skill that is very hands-on. This is great for people who find it difficult to sit still or fidget constantly. Having something tangible to hold can give you something to fixate on, other than your ruminating thoughts. It is likely that there are activities you regularly engage in that would fit in this category; you might not have realized you were using them to cope though until now.
For example, a lot of people use exercise to deal with their emotions. The physical movement, and even pain, distracts them from their previous thoughts and feelings. Playing video games, or games on your phone, is another common diversion skill that many adults engage in daily. Cooking is great because it satisfies a basic need AND can help you take your mind off of worries. It is helpful to have a variety of coping skills in your tool box.
Challenge yourself to learn a new skill! If you try one and it doesn’t help, try a different one. Some skills are better suited for certain moods or problems, just as specific tools are more helpful for certain tasks. You have to find what works for you. Try some this week and find out what your tool box is missing!
Puzzles
Board Games
Word Search/Crosswords
Reading
Crocheting/Knitting
Video Games/Phone Games
Sudoku
Building Something
Working
Fixing Something
Exercise
Gardening
Cooking
Challenge Yourself
