Unhealthy coping skills, on the other hand, only serve to make our problems worse. These can include self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse, harmful thought patterns, such as toxic positivity, or negative thoughts and emotions, such as reflection. An adaptive coping mechanism may include getting help from people who can offer support, such as a friend or counselor. It can include keeping a journal, doing some exercise, or meditating.
A maladaptive coping mechanism can include avoiding a person or situation that causes stress, becoming defensive, or hurting yourself in some way.
