Stress management techniques to remember
Excessive stress can make everyday activities difficult or even painful. We all know what it’s like to weigh your options as another academic year nears its end — you may really want to catch up on sleep after that last all-nighter rather than get up and go to class.
Stress can stem from many different factors, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it ruin your daily life — especially at important times. Stress management gives you an opportunity to take charge of your own thoughts, habits and schedules.
First, take the time to examine and decipher what causes your stress. Once you have a good idea of your stressor, you can start to determine how you currently deal with it — and how integral it is to your work or home life. You can also figure out if you express stress in a way that’s temporary or if you blame your stress on other people or events.
Once you’ve decided how you handle stress, you can move on to a method of stress management called the “four A’s” — avoid, alter, adapt and accept. You can avoid the issue, alter the issue, adapt how you feel or accept your feelings about the issue.
As you go through this process, keep in mind that some stress originates from interaction with others. However, you might be surprised to learn that community engagement can lower your stress level. Perhaps you hang out more often with friends or join a team sport to help you stay happy and healthy!
The way you talk to others — and to yourself — is extremely important in maintaining a healthy mindset and lifestyle. Think about how to turn negatives into positives — rather than tell yourself that something isn’t possible, say “I can try.”
The same goes for apologies. Instead of offering an apology for being late, thank your friend for waiting for you. Positivity spreads kindness, and kindness leads to less stress.
Keeping a positive mindset while dealing with stress can be hard, but engaging in some of the following activities can help you center and lead a productive day!
- Make some art! You can paint, sculpt, play an instrument — anything that stimulates you creatively.
- Clear your mind with a little outdoor stroll, or simply bask in the sun and fresh air.
- Take a break from the stressor. It may seem easier said than done, but telling yourself that you can take a break helps you gain a new perspective.
- Whether you’re grocery shopping or lifting heavy at the gym, getting out and moving around will help to boost your mood!
There are other relaxing methods that you can turn to as well, such as journaling, meditation or exercise. What’s important is not to let your responsibilities discourage you from taking care of your mental health!
Below are links that contain more tips and ideas for further activities:
https://www.brainline.org/article/stress-management-how-reduce-prevent-and-cope-stress
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-management.htm/
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/3-tips-to-manage-stress
