I have developed many coping mechanisms that help me deal with the stresses of my day. I use deep breathing, journaling, exercising, and yes, a daily glass of wine. None of these are necessarily bad for me as long as I keep them in moderation. There are, however, some other things that I do that I am not so sure about. For example, there’s the video games.

My husband naps every afternoon. He rests better if I am close by so I used to sit in the same room and read. Then, I discovered “Sherlock” the video game. It allows me to escape into a completely different world where I am constantly beating challenges and earning rewards. It was free to download and I could play it for hours if I didn’t run out of energy (the character in the game, not me). I have even caught myself telling my husband to go back to sleep for a while longer when I am not ready to stop playing. I am definitely addicted to this game.

I enjoy having a daily distraction, but I think there are healthier options than sitting and staring at a screen. Perhaps, though, it is okay for me to zone out for that hour as long as I put it down and walk away when the time is up. My coping mechanisms are good as long as they are done mindfully, in moderation and I recognize the risks. And I must always remember that the mechanisms cannot become the focus but instead use them as supportive tools that help me get through the day.