What it means
The ways people deal with stress. Healthy coping includes talking with others, exercise, problem-solving, relaxation, prayer and hobbies. Unhealthy coping includes drinking, drug use, overeating, isolation and self-harm. Coping mechanisms are often chosen consciously, unlike defense mechanismdih-FENS MEK-uh-niz-umAn unconscious mental process that protects a person from anxiety or painful feelings.Full entry s, which are unconscious.
For the nurse
Ask how the client has coped with hard times before and build on what worked. Teach new skills, such as deep breathing, and link the client with support groups and services.
At a glance
| Spanish | mecanismo de afrontamiento |
|---|---|
| Also written | coping mechanisms |
Easy to confuse with
defense mechanism
An unconscious mental process that protects a person from anxiety or painful feelings.
Related terms
cognitive behavioral therapy
A talk therapy that helps a person notice unhelpful thoughts and change the thoughts and actions that keep a problem going.
defense mechanism
An unconscious mental process that protects a person from anxiety or painful feelings.
grief
The deep emotional, physical and spiritual response to a loss, especially the death of someone close.