Psychological perspectives emphasize that stress is not only about external events but also about perception. Two people may experience the same situation—such as public speaking—very differently depending on their mindset and coping resources. Cognitive appraisal theory suggests that stress arises when individuals perceive a situation as exceeding their coping abilities.
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Coping mechanisms are the strategies people use to manage stress. Psychologists categorize them into problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. Problem-focused coping involves taking direct action, such as making a plan, seeking solutions, or changing circumstances. Emotion-focused coping aims to regulate feelings through strategies like relaxation, reframing, or seeking emotional support. Both forms can be effective depending on the situation.
Unfortunately, people also resort to maladaptive coping strategies, such as avoidance, denial, substance abuse, or aggression. While these may bring short-term relief, they often worsen stress in the long run.
