Whether it’s going back to work after a long period of time off. Knowing the world or your country has gone to shit. Feeling like your life is stagnant. We all need to cope some to get it through and make it another day.
I personally eat, it’s not a good way to cope since it can lead to health issues but it sometimes helps.
I also sometimes re-watch or re-listen to things over and over. Of things that make me feel a little comfortable to watch and listen to again. YouTube videos I hadn’t watched in a while, songs I haven’t listened to forever or maybe go another few rounds of listening to an old podcast long out of syndication.
I try to create - drawing, making music, sewing, repairing appliances, learning how to do new things. Single-player games (video or board) are a nice way to unwind and distract your mind while still keeping it challenged. I am lucky enough to have a couple chill days who like to snuggle, and that snuggling helps way more than I ever thought.
What are some good single player board games?
This is a solid list with descriptions so you can figure out if the theme and game play is appealing to you: https://www.tabletopgamingnews.com/single-player-board-games/
Wingspan is on the list, and while it’s pricy, it’s a lovely engine-building game that can get very involving. A couple of my friends were obsessed with this one for a few years.
I’d also add Sagrada, another pretty game where you work within set parameters to match dice colours & pips to “build” stained glass windows. It can be challenging and requires strategy and a little luck, but again, very involving and satisfying.
There’s also a single-person dungeon crawler from an indie developer that you can take anywhere: https://gladdendesign.com/products/paper-apps-dungeon
And if you don’t mind screen time, there are a surprising number of board games on Steam, with online play options so you can play with others.