Coping

Coping with stress is a challenge that all individuals face because stress is a part of life. Stress and the strategies used to cope with stress have a direct connection with lifestyle. Stress can negatively affect individuals’ ability to engage in positive activities, and it can lead to participation in unhealthy activities as a means of managing negative emotions (drinking, drug use, overeating, and compulsive behaviors). Recreation, leisure, and physical activity, however, can be extremely effective mechanisms for coping with stress. Unfortunately, many members of the public do not recognize the value of activity engagement and choice as it relates to coping with stress. This discussion provides an overview of the process of coping with stress, the strategies used to cope with stress, and the ...