My friend had this really interesting coping mechanism: whenever he hit a rough patch, he’d joke about “activating his vacuum cleaner mode”, meaning he’d suck in all the negativity to keep going. 

I’d tease him, predicting his likely failure, arguing that he’s basically ripping off Dr. Manhattan’s totally indifferent method™, which didn’t even work too well for him, and he’s supposed to be the closest thing to a god. One day, the joke turned into a drawing. 

And of course, if you haven’t already, go and read “Watchmen”.