April 09, 2019
Feeling overwhelmed? Here are some tips to help you manage stress levels to stay healthy.
What is Stress Awareness Month?
National Stress Awareness Month has been held every April, since 1992. During this annual thirty-day period, health care professionals and health promotion experts across the country will join forces to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic.
What Causes Stress?
We all experience stress—at any age and throughout life. You may be stressed about work, school, kids, money, your relationship, a big change, a setback, a health issue, or something else. The right amount of stress, like a deadline coming up, can be motivating and just what you need to get energized. But too much stress can affect your health and well-being and can cause symptoms such as sleep problems, stomachaches, headaches, irritability, feeling anxious and more.
How Can I Deal with Stress?
Taking care of yourself with a good diet, getting exercise, and practicing exercises such as mindfulness and meditation are effectives ways to help manage and keep stress in check. Here are a few others:
Get enough sleep to allow your body and mind to recharge
Keep a journal or make lists to balance priorities
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking and other negative coping mechanisms
Resist isolation and tap into social connections with friends or family
Take time to focus to a hobby you enjoy or to listen to music
Seek counseling if necessary
Don’t let stress damage your health, relationships or quality of life. Start practicing stress management today!
