Stress Awareness Month
Stress can affect you in different ways. You may feel tired, anxious or even depressed. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. In fact, stress.org reports that 55% of Americans feel stress on some level every day. April is Stress Awareness Month and an excellent time to learn about stress, its impact and healthy ways to cope.
For most, stress is not something that can be avoided entirely. However, there are plenty of simple coping techniques to help you reduce stress levels both immediately and over time.
Make peace with stressors that are out of your control. Dealing with issues you have no control over is challenging but letting them go is the best thing you can do for your wellbeing. Remind yourself that the concern is out of your hands, then shift your focus to something else. You may have to do this several times, but eventually, it will get easier.
Avoid drugs and alcohol. Substances may seem like a temporary fix to feel better, but in the long run, they can create more problems and add to your stress instead of taking it away. Try cutting back on substance use or replacing an evening of drinking with mood-boosting activities such as exercise, a movie night with friends or taking a fun class.
Call a loved one. Connecting with a loved one is a great option when it comes to coping with stress. It’s a great way to get the issue off your chest and then engage in a distraction by discussing other topics.
Bake or cook. Making your own food can be highly therapeutic. Try making dinner or dessert from scratch. Working with your hands can help you remove yourself from stressful situations and recenter yourself.
Laugh. Laughter is one of the best ways to relieve stress. Try watching a comedy show on Netflix or ask your friends for their favorite jokes or stories.
Even though stress is common, everyone handles it differently. Finding what works for you is key. The exercises above are a great place to start.
