Public Health and Environment

Managing Stress

Work, home, family, relationships, bills, health issues, legal problems-a lot of things can cause stress in your life. While some stress is inevitable, chronic stress can harm your physical and mental well-being. Fortunately, you can take charge. Here are ten great ways to help you manage the stress in your life. 

• Get Enough Sleep

  • Find the amount of sleep you need to be at your best and try to get it every night.
    
    

• Get Active

  • When you exercise, your body produces endorphins -natural hormones that help you relax and feel good. Try stretching, walking, bicycling, jogging, yard work or housework for fast relief.
    
    

• Eat a Healthy Diet

  • Try to eat foods from a variety of the food groups, and be sure to include plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. When you eat well, you feel better and are better able to manage stress.
    
    

• Anticipate Change

  • Take some time every day to look at the major areas of your life-work, relationships, health, finances, spirituality. Sometimes you can anticipate areas that may be changing and that are likely to become stressful. Remember, there is no "right" way to react to change. Accept the way you are and allow yourself the time and space you need to adjust.
    
    

• Get Organized

  • Being disorganized can cause stress. If that's true for you, make a "To Do" list each day, break larger tasks down into smaller steps and stay focused. If necessary, delegate work or household chores to others.
    
    

• Believe in Yourself

  • The key to managing stress is believing that you're in charge of your life. If you believe you can do things to make your like better, then your life will become better.
    
    

• Be Positive

  • Negativity creates stress. Each time you catch yourself thinking a negative thought or taking a negative attitude, replace it with a positive one. Try to see changes as challenges or adventures. Practice positive self-talk.
    
    

• Do What You Enjoy

  • Surround yourself with the beauty of nature, listen to music, read a book or go for a long walk.
    
    

• Laugh!

  • A good laugh increases the circulation of blood and oxygen to all major organs, including your brain. You'll think more clearly, feel more relaxed and resolve conflict more effectively.
    
    

• Find the Support You Need

  • Research has shown that having someone to talk to can be beneficial. Get support from a relative, friend, co-worker, self-help group, professional counselor or therapist. Source: Health Partners, 1998