A clinical psychologist has outlined four effective skills to help individuals quickly de-escalate feelings of stress and anxiety. One notable method involves dunking the head into a bowl of ice water, which triggers the mammalian dive reflex, a physiological response that can lower distress levels.

These strategies aim to help people regain clarity of thought when overwhelmed by intense emotions. The advice was shared in the United States and highlights practical approaches to managing acute stress.

Sources

  • NPR News, "So distressed you can't think straight? Lower the intensity with these 4 skills," July 20, 2026. Read more