Healthy Ways to Handle Stress
Everyday living isn’t as simple as it used to be. Responsibilities at home, conflict with family, being pushed too hard at work, and even financial concerns can all lead to stress. Seventy percent of adults reported needing more emotional support in the past year than they received.
A growing number of adults feel the strain of daily stress. While not all of life’s stressors can be eliminated, there are ways to manage them effectively. By implementing different techniques and healthy habits, we can be better at handling life’s challenges and supporting our wellbeing.
Managing Your Stress is Important
Managing stress allows us to be more present, focused, and productive in our daily lives. When stress levels stray elevated for extended periods of time, it can harm both mental and physical health.
Chronic stress can lead to:
Fatigue or burnout
Muscle tension and headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Anxiety and nervousness
Effective Stress Management Techniques
Reframing our outlook on stressful situations
If you notice yourself imagining worst-case scenarios, stop and put your mind elsewhere.
Ask yourself, “Will this matter a week from now? A year?”
Be okay with accepting things that are outside of your control.
Try embracing humility and setting realistic deadlines for yourself.
Practicing regular mindfulness
Mindfulness can be done in many ways and keep you grounded in the present.
Practice engaging in positive self-talk.
Practice mindfulness meditation or personal reflection.
Spend time outside, taking in your senses and surroundings.
Journaling about your day or stressors to process emotions.
Take a few deep, slow breaths.
To read more, visit our blog focusing on the topic: Practice Mindfulness — LifeWays
Setting realistic expectations for yourself
Perfection isn’t necessary, your best will do.
Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable parts.
Be flexible when things don’t go to plan.
Moving your body/participating in leisurely activities
Going on walks can help boost your serotonin and improve mood.
Try stretching, yoga, or light exercise to get your body active.
Participating in local sports or hobbies that bring you joy.
Schedule time for yourself to relax or have fun.
Progressive muscle relaxation
Stress can cause muscles to tense up and can lead to aches and fatigue. Being able to mindfully recall your body will allow you to release some of that built up tension.
Find a comfortable position in a quiet environment.
Focus on each muscle group at a time and tense your muscle for 5-10 seconds, then release while taking deep breaths.
A good rule of thumb is to start with your toes and work your way up your body.
Notice any changes in your body as you repeat the process.
Explore this idea more here.
Discovering What Works for You
Everyone experiences life differently and has different coping strategies. It may take some experimenting with different tactics to discover what works best for you. If your stress starts to become overwhelming or unmanageable, reach out to a professional for help.
You can also take our free, anonymous mental health screening to help you determine if your recent thoughts or behaviors may be associated with a common, treatable mental health issue. www.lifewaysmi.org/screening
