Quiz: How Healthy Are Your Stress Coping Mechanisms?

How much stress do you feel you face in your life?

It's natural to feel a level of stress in your day-to-day life. In fact, a little stress can be helpful. The stress mechanism can help your brain function better. But too much stress is detrimental.
The average stress level for most American adults is 5.1 on a 10-point scale. Is your stress level frequently higher than 5? Then it's a good idea to explore some healthy coping mechanisms.

How often do you oversleep

Sleeping too much or too long can be a way to escape stress. It may also be a sign you're not getting restful sleep at night, or it could be a bit of both. It's another indication of unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Do you tend to eat more or crave comfort foods when you're feeling stressed out?

Many people turn to food when they feel anxious or overwhelmed. Comfort food that's high in fat and sugar is often the most popular option. Turning to food to combat stress is an unhealthy coping mechanism.

How many cups of caffeinated beverages do you drink each day?

Many people believe caffeine relieves stress. But science reveals the opposite is true. Caffeine can even double stress-related hormones.

If you do, how late do you drink caffeinated drinks?

If you find yourself relying on caffeine late into the afternoon, you're doing more harm than good. It's best to avoid caffeine after 2 p.m. to minimize sleep issues.

Do you recognize that you have an "outlet" activity for managing your stress?

Positive activities can be a healthy coping mechanism for stress management. Writing, therapy, meditation, yoga and other hobbies are examples of good outlets.

Do you use recreational drugs?

Relying on recreational drugs to alleviate stress, anxiety or depression is often referred to as self-medication. There are much healthier ways to address your stress.

Do you use any substances with the goal of stress release?

Chronic stress often leads to addictive behaviors. This includes substance abuse, overeating, smoking and even extreme sexual activity. If you're turning to alcohol or drugs to relieve stress, it's a sign of harmful coping behaviors.

Do you use alcohol to manage your stress?

When faced with a stressful situation, do you find yourself reaching for the bottle? Are you picturing your first drink of the day in anticipation of relief? You may be using alcohol as a stress outlet.

How many alcoholic drinks do you have each week on average?

People with high levels of stress tend to drink more than others. You may not even be aware of your new dependence on liquor. But if your intake has increased along with your stress levels, you may be indulging in this unhealthy coping mechanism.

Does exercise or sports help you feel better when you're feeling stressed?

Physical activity increases the production of endorphins. This helps you feel good and enhances your mood. It's a beneficial coping strategy.

Do you turn to forms of escapism, like excessive TV watching or web surfing, to minimize feelings of stress?

Ignoring or evading your stress may feel good in the short term. But this isn't a long-term solution. Eventually, you must face your issues. Without the right tools, the results may be detrimental.

When coping with stress, do you feel defeated or empowered?

Feelings of frustration or hopelessness can drive you to indulge in bad habits. You may try to numb yourself to those feelings with liquor or drugs. However, an empowered mindset can inspire positive coping behavior.

Do you ever experience alcohol rage symptoms?

If you're a drinker, explosive bursts of anger may be a sign of alcohol abuse. This may signal your dependence on alcohol for stress relief.

Have your loved ones mentioned a connection between alcohol and aggression in your behavior?

Family members often find themselves dealing with an angry alcoholic when stress plays a huge role in their loved one's life. Consider reaching out for help with alcohol and anger management if this describes your situation.