PSYCHOLOGICAL STRATEGIES FOR COPING WITH STRESS: A PATHWAY TO MENTAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

 Stress has become a defining feature of modern life, affecting individuals across diverse cultural, occupational, and social settings. It is widely recognized as a psychological and physiological response to external or internal pressures that challenge an individual’s perceived capacity to cope. Persistent stress is linked to anxiety, depression, burnout, cardiovascular problems, and impaired immune functioning, making its effective management a critical concern for health and psychology. This article explores psychological approaches to stress management, emphasizing cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness-based practices, positive psychology interventions, and social support systems. These methods are grounded in empirical research and are designed to enhance resilience, promote adaptive coping, and foster mental well-being. The review synthesizes current literature to provide an integrated framework of stress reduction strategies, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations. Furthermore, the article presents a conceptual methodology for analyzing stress interventions, focusing on individual differences, contextual factors, and long-term sustainability of outcomes. By examining both theoretical and applied perspectives, this study underscores the importance of developing tailored psychological strategies that empower individuals to navigate stress more effectively. Ultimately, the findings stress the necessity of proactive psychological management to reduce the negative consequences of stress and to cultivate resilience in an increasingly demanding world.