Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. Emotional stress usually occurs when a person feels the situation is difficult or challenging. Physical stress is a physical reaction of the body to various triggers. The pain experienced after surgery is an example of physical stress. Physical stress often leads to emotional stress, which often occurs in the form of physical stress, such as stomach cramps, for example. Stress management means trying to control and reduce the tension that occurs in stressful situations. This is done by making emotional and physical changes. 

 

A person's attitude can influence whether or not a situation or emotion is stressful. A person with a negative attitude will often report more stress than would someone with a positive attitude.

A poor diet puts the body in a state of physical stress and weakens the immune system. As a result, a person can be more likely to get infections. A poor diet can mean making unhealthy food choices, not eating enough, or not eating on a normal schedule. This form of physical stress also decreases the ability to deal with emotional stress because not getting the right nutrition may affect the way the brain processes information.

Almost everyone needs someone in their life they can rely on when they are having a hard time. Having little or no support makes stressful situations even more difficult to deal with.

A person with no outside interests, hobbies, or other ways to relax may be less able to handle stressful situations. Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night also helps a person cope with stress.

 

• Find the positive in situations, and do not dwell on the negative.

• Plan fun activities.

• Take regular breaks

 

Physical activity:

 

• Start a physical activity program. Experts recommend 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week.

• Decide on a specific type, amount, and level of physical activity. Fit this into your schedule so it can be part of your routine.

• Find a buddy to exercise with. It is more fun and helps you to stick with your routine.

• You do not have to join a gym, 20 minutes of brisk walking outdoors is enough.

 

Social support:

 

• Try to socialize. Even though you may feel like avoiding people when you are stressed, meeting friends often helps you feel less stressed.

• Be good to yourself and others.

 

Relaxation:

 

• Try relaxation techniques, such as guided imagery, listening to music, or practicing yoga or meditation.

• Listen to your body when it tells you to slow down or take a break.

• Get enough sleep. Good sleep habits are one of the best ways to manage stress.

• Do something that interests you. Take up a hobby.

 

Stress can hit you when you least expect it—before a test, after an accident, or during conflict in a relationship. While everyone experiences stress at times, a prolonged bout of it can affect your health and ability to cope with life. That’s why social support and self-care are important. They can help you see your problems in perspective…and the stressful feelings ease up. You can take your mind off your problems by giving—helping a neighbor, volunteering in the community, even taking the dog on a long walk.

If these stress management techniques do not work for you, professionals, such as licensed social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists can help. Schedule time with one of these mental health professionals to help you learn stress management strategies, including relaxation techniques. These can be positive ways to channel your feelings.

 

By SASS Center