How Do I Manage Stress?

We are all aware that stress is an everyday occurrence. Our fast-paced lifestyle, reliance on social media, multiple sources of conflicting information, and the global pandemic all cause us to experience stress. These feelings can lead us to ask the question, “how do I manage stress?” Stress is no laughing matter. Despite studies that show the positive effects of stress, too much stress over a long period is detrimental to your physical and mental health. We all have to explore strategies to manage stress.

What Causes Stress?

Stress is defined as your reaction to any event or circumstance that requires a corresponding action, behavior, or adjustment. Both positive and negative changes and events can create stress. Waking up too late or too early can result in stress. Watching the latest episode of your favorite TV series can create stress. Any deviation in your regular morning routine, such as running out of toothpaste, can also lead to stress.

Why Is Stress Bad?

Many people view all forms of stress as character-building tools, assuming that any kind of stress will make you stronger both physically and mentally. However, stress that is left unchecked over a prolonged period may lead to disastrous results that could carry on for the rest of your life, including:

Heart-related conditions
Mental health concerns
Weight-related issues
Lack of drive and focus
Problems in your social life

You have to be aware of your current situation and ask yourself, “how do I manage stress?”

How Do I Manage Stress?

This is the question we all need answers to. Frequently and incorrectly, people ask, “how can I remove stress from my life?” The truth of the matter is that stress is here to stay, and we should focus our attention on one keyword when it comes to stress: management. Managing stress is the only practical method we have to achieve balance in our lives. There are many effective methods we can use to manage our stress that include:

Accept that some things are out of your control – Stress is a part of our everyday lives. We are all susceptible to stress because of how difficult life can be. So you must accept that there are things beyond your control, and the best way to deal with such things is to let them be. Don’t stress over things you cannot change or influence.
Sleep and rest – A favorite pastime for many, having enough time to recharge your mind and body is the most underrated approach you have to manage stress. And this is particularly difficult for people with sleeping issues. Sleeping allows your body to enter into its natural state of recovery, repairing your muscles and blood vessels, and preparing you for when you wake up with energy and purpose.
Seek social support – Having people you can count on when times get stressful is a crucial aspect of our lives. Humans are social beings, and the phrase “no man is an island” rings true. Talk with your friends, open up to your family, find a local support group, and seek professional help if necessary.
Exercise regularly – Exercising regularly is directly related to reduced stress levels. Exercise reduces the body’s stress hormones and stimulates the production of endorphins, our natural painkillers. The adverse health effects of stress, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases, are improved through exercising.

Prioritize Stress Management

Stress, unfortunately, controls the lives of many people. And this way of life comes at a steep price. The solution to stress is finding effective ways to manage it. Commit to finding more stress management techniques that you can apply to your lifestyle. Another way to manage stress is to look into our therapy programs. Some of the options we offer include:

Begin with yourself and never hesitate to ask friends, colleagues, experts, and even online websites, “how do I manage stress?” And help from our team of experts at Promises is just a phone call away at 844.875.5609.