We all cope with complex situations in different ways - and these arise all the time in blended families. Sometimes our coping skills can be productive - but other times, not so much. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just pick one set of coping skills and use them forever? But the truth is, that rarely works. 

Dr Lisa Doodson, says maladaptive coping strategies are often used by step-parents due to the stress and added complexity of their situation; these are coping behaviours that help provide temporary relief in the short term, but hurt in the long term.

So how do we stop and realise that a coping mechanism we are using to perhaps make ourselves feel better when we feel anxious, like avoiding family activities or hiding from difficult conversations with our partner about how we feel - is in fact not actually helping us cope? 

Dr Lisa says if you find yourself relying on strategies that are not fixing the issue, that’s when you need to find new ones. She says it’s about taking that deliberate time to reflect on why that strategy might not have worked.



Episode Link: intheblend.com.au/podcast/dr-lisa-doodson-on-how-to-be-a-happier-blended-family-parent/

We all cope with complex situations in different ways - and these arise all the time in blended families. Sometimes our coping skills can be productive - but other times, not so much. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just pick one set of coping skills and use them forever? But the truth is, that rarely works. 
Dr Lisa Doodson, says maladaptive coping strategies are often used by step-parents due to the stress and added complexity of their situation; these are coping behaviours that help provide temporary relief in the short term, but hurt in the long term.
So how do we stop and realise that a coping mechanism we are using to perhaps make ourselves feel better when we feel anxious, like avoiding family activities or hiding from difficult conversations with our partner about how we feel - is in fact not actually helping us cope? 
Dr Lisa says if you find yourself relying on strategies that are not fixing the issue, that’s when you need to find new ones. She says it’s about taking that deliberate time to reflect on why that strategy might not have worked.
 
Episode Link: <a href="https://intheblend.com.au/podcast/dr-lisa-doodson-on-how-to-be-a-happier-blended-family-parent/">intheblend.com.au/podcast/dr-lisa-doodson-on-how-to-be-a-happier-blended-family-parent/</a>

In The Blend is a podcast series that helps parents navigate life within step-families. 

Join host Laura Jenkins as she speaks with experts and guests to get practical advice on how to have a harmonious blended family life. 

This series dives deep into the unique dynamics, logistics, and challenges of raising a blended family. From new partners, to juggling mixed finances - Laura will help guide you through it. 

In The Blend is a podcast series that helps parents navigate life within step-families. 
Join host Laura Jenkins as she speaks with experts and guests to get practical advice on how to have a harmonious blended family life. 
This series dives deep into the unique dynamics, logistics, and challenges of raising a blended family. From new partners, to juggling mixed finances - Laura will help guide you through it.

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