Dealing with sudden changes

Have you ever had a great day, only to get some unexpected news? Sometimes news makes us happy, but other times it can be really upsetting.

Suddenly, what seemed like a great life can feel stressful or overwhelming. Dealing with surprises means staying positive, taking time to think before reacting, and looking at challenges as opportunities to grow.

It’s easier to say than to do. We all know staying positive is tough, but it can be done.

Here are some tips for handling a surprise situation:

• Accept that unexpected things happen in life.  

• Take a moment to pause and breathe deeply, then look at what’s going on.  

• Notice your thoughts and ask yourself, “Is this really how things are?” or “What story am I telling myself right now?”  

• Consider the best thing to do next.

Participation question:

How do you handle unexpected things that affect your daily life? What questions do you ask yourself? 

For example, I find it helpful to ask myself, “What is actually in my control right now?”

Helpful Videos:

Mindfulness Dissolves Thoughts

How Adaptability Will Help You Deal With Change

Helpful Resources:

4 Ways to Survive Unexpected Situations

Seeking Help 

Mental stress can cause us not to be able to see the good things in life and lead to excessive rumination or worries which can result in serious health problems. If you have serious, long-term problems with negative thinking and feeling depressed, see your doctor or talk to a therapist if they are related to any mental challenges. 

Are you looking for a therapist? 7 Cups has online, certified therapists with a paid option. For more information on what happens in online therapy at 7 Cups, read Lisa’s (a therapist and director of therapy) explanation. 

https://www.7cups.com/forum/therapy/General_2432/WeveLaunchedTalkTherapyon7Cups_319430/

To apply for 7 Cups online therapy, click on this link (must be logged into member account) https://www.7cups.com/online-therapy/?ob=1

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