Sometimes emotions become too much to handle, I am sure we’ve all felt this way a one time or another. Often people use coping strategies as we’ve discussed: denial, identification, compensation, rationalization, projection, daydreaming, displacement, reaction formation, regression, and sublimation. These are also known as defense mechanisms. We utilize these either consciously or unconsciously. Sometimes these coping strategies can protect you from painful events, or from dealing with overwhelming feelings. If overused these strategies can stunt emotional growth.

If you depend on these strategies too much, you may not learn to express your true feelings. Make time to take regular stock in yourself. If you’re going through a difficult/emotional time, ask yourself how you’re handling the situation. Be true to yourself, make goals, set a plan to accomplish those goals for yourself in dealing with your emotions or a situation. In a workplace setting it may be necessary to call in a third party to assist in an emotional situation; do what you need to in order to allow for your work place to be conflict free.

- Dionne Eddy