STRESS: 10 WAYS TO MANAGE IT

Stress will always be a part of our lives. Going to school, starting a new job, marrying, raising a family, being promoted, growing old, and facing illness or death all have some stress related to them. It is important to learn how to avoid unnecessary stress and to learn how to control harmful responses. It is not always easy to deal with stress.

The top ten stress-busters for managing stress:

Do something just for yourself. A trip to the hairdresser or barber, or having a therapeutic massage can do wonders when you're under a lot of stress.

Share how you are feeling with someone you can trust and who will listen to you, such as a family member, friend, healthcare provider, or clergy. There is an old saying that "A joy shared is doubled, and a sorrow shared is halved."

Exercising at least 3 days a week for at least 30 minutes each time improves your fitness and your sense of well-being.

Try not to "self-medicate" with food, alcohol, or over-the-counter medicines. Covering up a problem can make the stress even worse. Medications such as tranquilizers or sleeping pills ordered by your healthcare provider should be used as they are prescribed.

Eat at least one hot meal a day. Take a multivitamin and mineral supplement daily. Good nutrition is important because it gives your body the fuel it needs to deal with daily stress and hassles.

If you are a smoker, stop smoking and start breathing clean air. Smoking and stress are a dangerous combination. Your healthcare provider can help you find a smoking reduction or cessation program.

If you are a coffee or cola lover, cut down on these and other drinks that contain caffeine.

Learn and use meditation or relaxation exercises. Check with your local community center or community college to see if training is offered for yoga, meditation, tai chi, biofeedback, or other stress-relieving activities of interest to you.

We have all heard the adage, "laughter is the best medicine." It is. Laughing releases chemicals in the brain that help promote a relaxation response. Rent a comedy from a video store. Share it with friends and laugh your stressors away.

Get regular physical exams. Your healthcare provider can spot health problems related to stress and can provide you with suggestions and may refer you for any problems related to stress.

Remember, negative effects related to stress do not have to affect how you live and work.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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