3 ways to address your stress
Stress is a fact of life — but it doesn’t have to bring you down.
You can get ahead of it by learning healthy ways to manage it. While you can’t control what worries, concerns, or annoys you, you can control how you react. That’s the secret to mastering stress management.
What’s stressing you out?
Everyone experiences stress in different ways and for different reasons, but there are some causes that most everyone can identify with. In fact, these are the top 5:*
- Money
- Work
- Relationships
- Personal health problems
- Family health problems
Since these are all common issues, so it’s not surprising that so many people feel the effects of stress. The good news is, you’re not alone. This means there are resources for support and tips to help you cope.
Effects of stress
Too much stress can take a toll on your body, mind, and behavior. Signs can include:
- Feeling tired and drained
- A sense of being overwhelmed
- Anxiety (including panic attacks)
- Hopelessness
- Loneliness
- A lack of motivation or focus
- Trouble controlling your temper
Simple ways to address your stress
Everyone gets overwhelmed sometimes. But too much stress can be hard on your health — so it’s important to find ways to offset those negative effects. These healthy habits can help you stay cool under pressure, even when you’re pressed for time.
- Work that tension out
Symptoms of stress can create a vicious cycle between your mind and body. Exercise helps to break this cycle by relieving tension and releasing feel-good brain chemicals.
- Take a break to breathe
When you start to feel overwhelmed, try a few minutes of deep breathing. Breathe in for a count of 5, hold for 5, and exhale for 5. Repeat 10 times or until you start feeling more calm, grounded, and focused.
- Unplug to recharge
Your phone needs time to recharge, and so does your brain. Disconnecting from digital noise for a little while each day can help you feel calm, sleep better, and spend more time on activities that nourish your soul.
Looking for more stress-fighting strategies?
Visit kp.org/stressmanagement.
*American Psychological Association, “Stress in America: The impact of discrimination.” Stress in America™ survey, 2016.
