What do you do?

What positive actions do you take or skills do you use when life becomes overwhelming and want to turn the events around for comfort, relief, encouragement, and/or change?

Hmmm, I'm not sure I know what you mean, but here's what I understood.
When I'm feeling down or depressed, I sleep or watch funny shows and series. But maybe that's not something positive. Hmm.. I don't know. Oh oh I know, this might not be the same for everyone, but when I feel down, I pray more (I'm Muslim) and ask for God's help and forgivennes more than normal. That's positive right?

Definitely positive, that's exactly what was looking for, thank you!

At the moment, I may not be the best resource on means of dealing with life when it becomes overwhelming, as I've been failing pretty miserably at navigating those very waters recently. However, it's not without reason.

When I have been more successful at getting through overwhelming times, I seem to employ a host of strategies and activities, depending on where I am and of what I'm capable. A late night drive always mellows me out and offers perspective, thanks to the dearth of traffic and the moments I can peek at what stars are available for viewing when I'm stopped at a light. Time spent in natural environments and/or hiking and walking works wonders for me, when I can get to or do them. Productivity seems to ameliorate negativity and stress in me, but that can sometimes backfire. A simple treat can buy me a little time, at least to think, as I drink that overpriced cup or coffee or nibble on some candy. Plus, that last one is just fun. Hanging out with my friend who lives close by helps at times too, as she laughs fairly easily and tolerates my eccentricities...well, most of 'em. Talking is the best strategy of all for me, if you can call it that. An empathetic, willing ear is so helpful and appreciated when I'm overwhelmed.

Hope this helps, or is even slightly interesting. Thank you for a great question, Fresia!

My husband writes..and I mean writes for hours if need be. He has a journal in mirosoft word, he started it last year and writes in it when ever he needs release. He also has a list..which states all the things he'd like to achieve. Another list of all the things he will not put up with in his life, and another of all the things he likes about himself. These lists help him with perspective.

Honestly, I think I just focus on getting through whatever I'm going through. Sometimes its hard to focus on the big picture, so I just focus on one day at a time. Just making it through each day.

I focus on one issue at a time, and resolve them individually using my toolbox of coping skills. I get overwhelmed when I look at what's behind or ahead and lose track of the fact that I just have to get through this one day.

Sometimes, when I feel really bad, I go to bed early. Since lack of sleep fuels my depression, getting enough sleep almost always makes me feel somewhat better, and the distance between whatever might have upset me and the morning help me better think through things.

I go out and take a drive or go shopping...not always buying..more just looking. I have a very favorite thrift store that is extremely large and I love to just walk around that and maybe find a treasure!!

I also have a lot of wonderful meditation books and I always read from them daily. If things are really rough, I will just read more passages.

Music. I listen to it, write it, play it, sing it. I find it very soothing and healing to focus on the beauty and complexity of the sounds.

I also journal, which actually tends to create emotions for me, both positive and negative, but in the end, it's often helpful to be more aware of myself and what I'm thinking, even if it's not all good.

I hope you find some positive outlets, Fresia!

Art
Coffee with a friend (even if it's over the phone or IM)
Yoga or a walk
Accomplish something (housework, errands, etc.)
Get a good night's sleep
Read

It's hard to start but better in the end.

Paint
Write
Draw
Exercise
Go outside

Thank you everyone for your responses. Things have been rough lately: losses, a friend's murder/suicide investigation, health issues, and school stresses. I've become lost and have lost sight too of the other things I need to be doing in my life to balance it all. I REALLY appreciate everyone's ideas and thank you for sharing!

I wish I had something to add, but I appreciate everyone's lists and advice.

When things start to get overwhelming (it doesn't take much; I have close to zero stress-tolerance), I immediately slow down, both physically and mentally. I go about things slowly, deliberately -- it's almost comic.
Sleep is critical for me. Even if I can't sleep well, I'll put off dealing with something until after I've slept (usually meaning the next day, and sometimes two-three days).

Thanks for bringing up this topic, Fresia. It's something I too rarely think about.