I thought that coping skills were solely for distraction.

There are a few things my T has taught me.
1. All feelings are real and appropriate.
2. Feelings will change.
3. Feelings are not negative; you just might not like feeling certain ones.
4. You should honor your feelings; not repress or ignore them.
5. Feelings need to be expressed in a healthy manner.
6. Coping skills are not distractions. They are ways to met the needs behind the feelings.

Examples of meeting needs:
You feel lonely: go outside, call someone, volunteer, take a class, be with friends/family.
You feel sad: comfort yourself, cuddle with a blanket, cry, make hot tea/chocolate, take a warm bath/shower.
You feel worthless: do something you're good at, help someone else.
You feel vulnerable: do things that make you feel strong/safe...be with friends/family, exercise, take a martial arts class, change your environment.