Feeling Misunderstood and Unheard? Coping Strategies for Difficult Relationships

Do you feel like your loved ones or significant other does not understand you or listen to you? It can be extremely frustrating when you do not feel heard. It can feel like the emotions are out of control or are at least very difficult to control. Here are a few ideas to help manage the difficult emotions and anxieties.

1. Deep Breathing: Deep abdominal breathing is a helpful strategy for many kinds of difficult situations including being stuck in traffic, long lines, upcoming holidays, difficult conversations, interviews, and just stress in general. It can also help with managing anxiety, anger and extreme emotions. Breathe in slowly and deeply from the diaphragm or belly, hold that for a few seconds, breathe out slowly for a few seconds. Repeat.
2. Exercise: Walking, running, biking, sports, these can all be great stress relievers. Personally, I like to run outside because I get the added benefit of some vitamin D from the sun and some fresh air. Find a park or a peaceful place. You can bring a buddy for added fun and socialization. Check with your doctor about exercising if you have a medical condition.
3. Time outdoors: Google the local parks, beach and other peaceful locations. Find some shade and bring a favorite or new book and try to be mindful of the enjoyment involved with such a peaceful and serene environment.
4. Pause from electronics: Constant notifications can be distracting, and we can end up spending hours on our devices and not finish what we started. Put it down for a few minutes if your job allows.
5. Meditate: Now this is viewed differently by everyone. I personally like to spend time reading the Bible and praying and trying to clear my mind from the distractions around me. There are many apps out there to help with meditation depending on your view on this topic. You can adapt meditation to your own belief system and define it yourself. We are all unique individuals.
6. Boundaries and Organization: Setting boundaries around your personal time, your work time, relationship time and many other aspects of your life can help you to feel a little more in control of your life. I have a physical calendar where I record my time for work, time for managing social media, time for school, and all the other things in my life. Organization can lead to peace of mind. Part of boundaries around personal time is understanding yourself and your likes and dislikes, identifying your interests and spending time participating in those interests. For example, I like to create art and jewelry. I need to spend some time doing those things which help me feel more fulfilled and helps me take a break from work. Also, being more organized, in keeping a physical or digital calendar brings peace of mind because it is recorded and then you know where to look when you become anxious. Another tip is keeping a note log, if you become distracted just jot the note down in your “memo’s” and wala, one less item to worry about.

If you would like to find out more about how to apply these coping strategies in your life, check out my website at www.shekinahcounseling.com or give me a call or send me a message.

Brie-Anna M. Willey, MA, LMHC, CRC
Shekinah Counseling
600 8th Ave. W. Suite 303
Palmetto FL 34221
941-807-2670