I took the Coping and Stress Management Skills test and i learned a few important things about how i react to situations. One of the most notable is the fact that i scored a 57 on the Problem Focused Coping area. From what the results said, I can occasionally focus on problem focused strategies to manage my stress. The methods of this are effective when the stressor is something that I am able to change and focus on. When it is a controllable situation, being able to change something makes the coping strategies less effective and often leaves me frustrated.
Looking at this, I realize that I often go into a fixing mode where I try to fix something even if it may not have a solution. Which does connect to me being a more type A person who is fast-driven and when something comes to mind, I have to immediately do it. I need to improve on realizing when there is a situation where i am not in control and i can’t decide the outcome. I tend to push for a fix for any situation so being able to recognize this is vital to reduce stress. I want to use this test and the insights from it to be able to use problem focused coping with intention versus always do it. Be able to set boundaries and communicate my needs when needed. As well as build consistent habits like going to the gym, taking breaks and being able to reflect on my week and what was beneficial and what wasn’t.
I was able to further my research and find many organizations that are getting ahead of the game and talking about employee wellbeing. There are many companies that are introducing mental health resources, wellness programs, and other trainings and such. Things like this have significantly reduced burnout and create more sustainable work environments.