Stress Management

Stress Management

Stress management is a series of steps to get a handle on your stress. Knowing what stress can do to you physically and mentally can be plenty to entice you to change your stress habits. If you know what is stressing you, all you have to do is figure out how to handle it. But what are some methods you can use to help you manage your stress?

First you need to realize what event is stressing you and how you are reacting to it. You cannot ignore it; that will not help. Looking at your current stressor, what do you tell yourself about it that may be contributing to your discomfort? Once you have identified the event and how you react both physically and mentally, you can start looking at what you can change. If it is possible to remove the stressor from your life, then why not do so? If you cannot, then perhaps you could find ways to reduce the severity of the event, such as dealing with it at different, specific times. Find ways to devote time to making changes to the event – even a small change can help.

The next step in Stress management is to focus on your reactions. When you look at the stressor, how do you perceive it? Are you making a mountain out of a molehill? Putting too much emotion into stress reactions can be exhausting and lead to various problems. Look at your stressor in a logical way and examine it instead of allowing it to control your mind. Avoid lingering on “what ifs” and other negative feelings. Try moderating your physical reactions as well. Slow, deep breathing can help your heart rate and give you a better feeling of being in control.

Once you get a handle on the stress, you can build up your physical and mental reserves by exercising, eating healthy, avoiding stimulants, socializing with friends and family, and in general, being good to yourself.