In short, compartmentalization. Ymmv, but here's what works for me: 1) first, grab a real pen(cil) and paper (even if it's scrap), sit down somewhere comfortab

In short, compartmentalization. Ymmv, but here's what works for me: 1) first, grab a real pen(cil) and paper (even if it's scrap), sit down somewhere comfortable, and take some time to write down what's bothering you. How it makes you feel, and why, and what you want to do about it, and everything that's been running through your mind about it. Until you have no more to say. This helps your mind feel like you have given the problem the attention it deserves. 2) write down 2-3 finite, specific tasks that are important for you to get done today, and that you know that on an ordinary day you can complete all of in just half a day. This is a point of focus for your workday. Even if you accomplish nothing else, completing these tasks should be considered a victory on a bad day. 3) take a walk or meditate for 15 minutes to clear your head and refocus. Don't beat yourself up if your mind wanders or even returns to what's bothering you, but if you can empty your head, do. The purpose of this time is to create a mental break between the thinking about this problem and thinking about work. 4) don't force yourself to start coding. Do force yourself to open up your text editor to the place you need to be to get the first of your 2-3 tasks done. 5) if, at this point, you're still unable to code, take a mental health day or two. Focus on taking care of yourself, because you'll be more productive tomorrow if you heal yourself today.