LEARN THE BASICS
MARCH 2021
6 ways to manage stress
Everyday stresses are normal. But long-term stress can harm your health by potentially impacting your immune, digestive, sleep and reproductive systems. That’s why it’s important to proactively take control and manage your stress.
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Here are some tips to help you cope:
Recognize the signs
Recognize the signs of your body’s response to stress such as difficulty sleeping, increased alcohol and other substance use, being easily angered, feeling depressed and having low energy.
Talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor, whether that’s a primary care physician or a behavioral health professional. Need help finding a doctor? Check out the resources below for support.
Get regular exercise
Just 30 minutes per day of walking can help boost your mood and reduce stress.
Try a relaxing activity
Explore stress-coping programs, which may incorporate meditation, yoga, tai chi or other gentle exercises. For some stress-related conditions, these approaches are used in addition to other forms of treatment. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy and relaxing activities. Learn more about these techniques on the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) website.
Set goals and priorities
Decide what must get done and what can wait. Learn to say no to new tasks if they are putting you into overload. Take notice of what you’ve accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
Stay connected
Keep in touch with people who can provide emotional and other support. We know it’s hard, but it’s okay to ask for help from friends, family, and community or religious organizations. It’s also okay to be selfish with your energy and avoid the people who bring you down.