Coffee & Coping: Why Your Morning Cup Might Be Doing More Than You Think

At ABC Counseling Inc., we’re not just mental health professionals—we’re humans, too. And like many humans, some of us don’t even pretend to function until the coffee hits.

There’s something sacred about that first cup of the day. Whether you’re sipping solo in the quiet of morning or catching up with a friend between clients, coffee can be more than just a caffeine fix. It’s a ritual. A pause. A chance to breathe.

If you’re like our dragon friends in the image above (who can’t see, hear, or speak without their coffee), you know what we mean. But what does coffee actually have to do with mental health?

Let’s spill the beans.

Coffee as a Coping Tool

Routines are grounding. They help us feel anchored, especially in times of stress, uncertainty, or emotional overwhelm. That first cup of coffee can be a small but mighty ritual—signaling the start of the day, giving you a moment to yourself, and helping regulate the pace of your morning.

It’s not just about what’s in the mug—it’s about the practice. The intention. The stillness.

The Mental Boost

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, which can temporarily improve alertness, reaction time, focus, and even mood. That’s why many of us feel more ourselves after a cup (or two).

But keep in mind—caffeine isn’t a replacement for sleep, hydration, or stress management. It’s a helpful assistant, not a magical fix. Too much of it can actually backfire, leading to jitters, sleep disturbances, or increased anxiety.

Coffee and Connection

There’s something beautifully human about sharing coffee. It’s a way to connect—with yourself, with others, with the world around you. Whether it’s a standing coffee date with a friend, chatting with your barista, or even a cozy moment alone with your thoughts and your mug, coffee can help us feel less isolated and more present.

Connection is a cornerstone of mental health—and sometimes, it starts with “Want to grab a coffee?”

Take a Lesson From the Dragons

The dragons in our featured image? They’re not just cute—they’re relatable.“I see nothing without coffee.”“I say nothing without coffee.”“I hear nothing without coffee.”

Sound familiar? You're not alone. While it’s okay to have a love affair with your morning brew, it’s also good to remember: coffee is part of your self-care routine—but it’s not the whole picture.

Taking care of your mental health involves checking in with yourself, reaching out for support, and building routines that help you feel balanced—beyond the buzz.

What Our Therapists Are Sipping

Ever wonder what your therapist reaches for when they’re easing into a day of holding space for others? We took an (unscientific) poll, and here's a sneak peek:

☕ Our Co-Owners: ☕ A comfort-meets-caffeine vibe. Maggie’s go-to is a Hopscotch protein latte with whipped cream from Dutch Bros (though a chai latte can easily steal her heart). Kelly? She’s here for the pure, cozy joy of a hot chocolate. Belinda is still keeping us in suspense—stay tuned.

☕ Clinical Director: ☕ The adventure drinker. Seasonal favorites as recommended by the barista (surprise me, please!), but at home? It’s a ritual: freshly ground Bones Coffee, a well-earned and frothed flavored creamer (the chocolatty-er the better), and a dark chocolate drizzle to seal the deal.

☕ Our Associates: ☕ A delightful mix. Gaby swears by plain Coca-Cola (bonus points if it’s an extra-cold Mexican Coke for special occasions 😂). Celeste switches it up—London Fog with lavender when tea is calling, iced brown sugar shaken espresso when it’s coffee time. Jessica is here proving that hydration is a superpower with ice-cold water. Cameron keeps it West Coast-cool with a California soda called Cactus Cooler. Lauren and Madyson—we’re waiting on your reveal!

☕ Our Student Interns: ☕ Iced, imaginative, and Instagram-worthy. Dominique’s all about iced matcha lattes with sweet cold foam and lavender 💚—refreshing, light, and delicious. Omeama goes for cold vanilla matcha lattes with extra creamy oat milk, then winds down with chamomile tea at night. Brittney, Kennedie, and Kya—spill the tea (or coffee)!

Your therapist probably gets your need for a coffee break. It’s a vibe.

Wellness Tip of the Week:

Create a morning routine that supports your mental health.This might include:

• A mindful coffee moment (no scrolling!)

• Five deep breaths before starting your day

• A short journal entry, stretch, or walk

• Saying “no” to chaos before you say “yes” to emails

Those first 10 minutes of your day? They matter more than you think.

Need More Than Just Coffee?

We’re here for you.

Whether you’re juggling burnout, anxiety, boundary-setting, relationship stress, or big life transitions—our therapists at ABC Counseling Inc. can help. We bring the warmth, the support, and yes, probably a travel mug.