Stress coping refers to the cognitive and behavioral strategies individuals use to manage the internal and external demands of stressful situations.

Stress arises when a person perceives that the challenges they face exceed their available resources to handle them. Coping mechanisms are therefore essential for maintaining mental and emotional balance, allowing individuals to navigate difficulties without becoming overwhelmed. These mechanisms can include problem-solving, seeking social support, or reappraising a situation to view it in a less threatening light.

Psychologists typically categorize coping strategies into two main types: problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. Problem-focused coping involves actively addressing the source of stress by finding solutions or making changes to reduce or eliminate the stressor. For example, creating a plan to manage workload or improving time management are forms of problem-focused coping. Emotion-focused coping, on the other hand, involves managing the emotional response to stress rather than the stressor itself. This might include relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or talking with friends to express feelings and gain perspective.

Effective stress coping is influenced by a variety of factors, including personality, past experiences, social support, and the nature of the stressor. Individuals who use adaptive coping strategies tend to experience better psychological and physical health outcomes, as they can mitigate the harmful effects of chronic stress. Conversely, maladaptive coping methods, such as avoidance or substance use, may provide temporary relief but often exacerbate stress in the long run. Understanding stress coping within psychology is thus crucial for promoting resilience and developing interventions that support mental well-being.