If you’re feeling stressed, whether from work or personal issues, the first step to feeling better is identifying the cause of the stress.
Turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like smoking or drinking, may provide temporary relief but can worsen things in the long run.
Likewise, avoiding the issue can increase your stress.
Effective stress management involves developing emotional resilience, taking charge of your situation, building a strong support system, and maintaining a positive outlook.
What You Can Do To Manage Stress
Here are 10 strategies to help reduce and manage stress:
- Be Active
Exercise may not eliminate stress, but it can reduce emotional intensity, clear your mind, and give you a calmer perspective to approach problems. - Take Control
Feeling helpless can heighten stress. Taking control—whether by tackling the issue directly or making changes—can empower you and help you find practical solutions. - Connect with People
Having a strong social network of friends, family, and colleagues can provide support, new perspectives, and opportunities to unwind. Talking with someone close to you can also lead to practical solutions. - Have Some “Me Time”
With busy routines, it’s easy to forget to make time for activities that bring you joy. Prioritize self-care by scheduling time each week for relaxation, socializing, or exercise. - Challenge Yourself
Setting personal or professional goals helps build confidence and serves as a healthy outlet for stress. Embracing new challenges keeps you engaged and reduces stress. - Avoid Unhealthy Habits
While alcohol, smoking, and caffeine may seem to provide short-term relief, they don’t address the root of your stress and often lead to new issues. It’s better to focus on addressing the source of your stress directly. - Help Others
Studies show that helping others, whether through volunteering or small acts of kindness, can enhance resilience and improve mental health. Even small gestures, like assisting with a task, can make you feel more connected and purposeful. - Work Smarter, Not Harder
Prioritize important tasks and let go of less critical ones. Organize your day so you focus on tasks that truly matter rather than trying to do everything at once. - Try to Be Positive
Focus on the positives in your life and practice gratitude. Writing down three things you’re grateful for at the end of each day can help shift your mindset and reduce stress. - Accept What You Can’t Change
Some situations, like job layoffs or market fluctuations, are beyond your control. Instead of stressing over things you can’t change, focus on what you can control, such as job searching or learning new skills.
