Why People Cope with Life Events So Differently

Right action comes when we take proactive steps to remedy a problematic situation, tapping into the things that are possible and can be controlled.

• A person with an external locus of control blames others and acts like a hopeless victim.
• A person who has an internal locus of control is able to move into positive action and cope up with the situation at hand.

A person with underlying and invisible mental health issues is likely to get triggered by any event.

Like the straw that broke a camel’s back, a person’s current mindset and problems can project a new problem in a distorted way, making even a small event feel overwhelming. This leads to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

Our personality and upbringing play a major role in how we handle a stressful situation.

First responders, firefighters and surgeons have different skill sets and mental strength, apart from the professional training that they have undergone, leading to better handling of pressure situations.

1. Take care of yourself by practising mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
2. Focus on what you are able to control, and regulate it, like watching less news.
3. Ask for support from family or a therapist.
4. Help others and listen to their problems, creating a reciprocating feeling of empathy and understanding.
5. Understand that we are all different yet the same, and learn to live in harmony.