Sometimes life doesn’t go as planned. When we face disappointment, a flurry of emotions can follow such as sadness, anger, stress, and even self-doubt. While those aren’t easy feelings to sit with, there are healthy ways to cope with disappointment.

Acknowledge how you feel

It’s important not to dwell on negative thoughts, but it is important to recognize how you are feeling because of what you are experiencing. Once you’ve acknowledged those feelings, start thinking positively. Think of a time you accomplished something or a time where you experienced joy. This can help minimize self-negativity and disappointment.

Learn from the disappointment

Instead of getting lost in the pain and negative emotions that can come from disappointment, choose to see it as something you can learn from and something that will help you to grow. Maybe this experience is allowing you to practice patience, experience change, or communicate more efficiently.

Give yourself a break

Maybe the disappointment you’re experiencing stemmed from a job you applied for but didn’t get or a relationship that didn’t work out. If so, give yourself a break. Everyone needs time to pause, reflect, and forgive themselves. Even just doing something different for a few minutes can reinvigorate you and help you feel re-centered.

Know when to look for help

Sometimes the disappointment you’re experiencing can be overwhelming, and you may not know how to process those feelings or overcome them. Your network of support may not be able to truly understand what you are experiencing, or you may not feel comfortable sharing all of the details with them. 

That’s why Valley Oaks Health offers individual and group therapy. These are safe spaces where you can share your feelings, prioritize your mental health, and deal with disappointment.