'We are all in this together': Coping with stress during uncertain times through somatic experiencing.

This article examines the effectiveness of Somatic Experiencing (SE), a resiliency-based therapeutic approach focusing on bodily sensations and nervous system regulation, in reducing stress and enhancing coping mechanisms during the COVID-19 pandemic. An eight-week SE-based group counselling intervention was conducted with two groups of young adults in Turkey, compared to a waitlist control group, using quantitative measures (COPE Revised and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale) and qualitative interviews. Results indicated statistically significant reductions in stress and improvements in coping strategies among participants, alongside qualitative themes of hope, universality, cohesiveness, insight, and new interpersonal behaviors. The study highlights the potential of SE-based online group therapy to support mental health during crisis situations, while noting limitations such as a small, predominantly female sample and the challenges of pandemic conditions.