Managing stress

Everyone gets stressed. It happens every day. Sometimes, it is small and manageable; other times, it feels like being run over by a truck several times. Stress can occur in many different situations and many different forms. Everybody reacts to stress differently and has their ways of dealing with it. 

Stress occurs in many different places and can occur at any time. It may happen at any life-changing event, such as weddings, graduations, changes in jobs, moving, etc. We may feel stressed during certain times of the year, such as during the holidays, birthdays or even at anniversaries of something traumatic. And stress can hit you on any day when things become challenging at work or home.

There are many things you can do to reduce the intensity of stress or even eliminate it. Listed below are some techniques to try and reduce stress: 

• Identify the source of the stress and whether it is short- or long-term. 

• Take a look at a healthy way you reduced your stress in the past. Keep doing it. 

• It is important to keep breathing. Take some slow, deep breaths to relax your muscles. 

• Take a walk or run during the day. Physical activity can alleviate some of the tension in your body. 

• Read a book. 

• Listen to some music. 

• Plan your day. Procrastination can result in more stress. Doing things when you have more time can reduce the amount of stress you may have. 

• Know your limitations. Avoid taking on extra responsibility if you can. 

• Keep a Stress Journal about your thoughts and feelings. It can sometimes help you better handle the stress and how to better address it. 

• Deal with difficult situations early. By getting them out of the way, you avoid all the anxiety and other negative feelings that may follow you throughout the day. 

• Pick and choose your battles. Some arguments are not worth having and can create more tension. Spend your time and energy on something that will be more constructive.  

• Focus on the positives. Sometimes, we look at the negatives and diminish or ignore the positives. 

• Engaging in a hobby, sport or something recreational can be reinvigorating and help you get energized to tackle those stresses. 

• Use your support system. Sometimes, we feel we are alone when we are not. Friends and family can be great support systems to use when stressed. 

Sometimes, when the stress is chronic, if nothing seems to be helping, counseling can help. A mental health professional can help you better cope with life's stressors. Call your program for assistance.