Manage Stress

Stress is the way you react to any changes (good, bad, real, or even imagined). Any change in daily habits causes stress. Some stress is productive and gives you the edge needed to achieve things. Other stress can be harmful and can lead to or worsen some health problems.

Ways to Manage Stress

1. •Maintain a regular program of healthy eating, good health habits, and adequate sleep.
   

2. •Exercise regularly. This promotes physical fitness and emotional well-being.
   

3. •Don’t let your emotions get “bottled up” inside. Share your feelings with others.

1. Staying Well

1. •Learn to manage your time efficiently.
   

2. •Avoid unnecessary arguments or quarrels.
   

3. •Do a “stress rehearsal.” Prepare for stressful events by imagining yourself feeling calm and handling the situation well.
   

4. •Minimize your exposure to things that cause distress.
   

5. •Practice a relaxation technique daily.
   

6. •Spend time helping others.
   

7. •Balance work and family or personal life.

1. •Engage in activities you enjoy and look forward to. Discover the “elf” in yourself. Learn to have fun and laugh.
   

2. •Accept the things you cannot change in yourself or others.
   

3. •Forgive yourself for mistakes.
   

4. •Take satisfaction in your accomplishments. Don’t dwell on your shortcomings.

1. •Develop and maintain a positive attitude.
   

2. •Surround yourself with cheerful people. Avoid stress-carriers.
   

3. •Set realistic goals for yourself.
   

4. •Seek professional help if you have one or more of these problems caused by stress:
   

5. -Excessive worry, anxiety, or nervousness.
   

6. -Crying spells or feeling of hopelessness.
   

7. -Insomnia or loss of appetite.
   

8. -Withdrawal from friends, coworkers, and relatives or getting angry at everyone.