Stress

Stress is a normal part of everyone’s life. Some stress can be good, but too much stress can interfere with your usual activities and contribute to many medical and emotional problems. By using positive coping skills to manage stress, you can lower your risk of health problems:

• Become aware of your signs of stress and the triggers that cause stress.
• Try to manage what causes stress.
• Maintain a regular program of healthy eating, exercise, and adequate sleep.
• Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, muscle relaxation, humor, and music.
• Manage time wisely and balance work and play.
• Be realistic, flexible, and keep a positive attitude.
• Share feelings with others.
• Learn to say “no” to requests for your time and for you to participate in an activity if it adds to your stress.

Call your health care provider if you are unable to maintain your daily activities, or if you have persistent feelings of depression, guilt, or hopelessness. There are often other options for help with stress including programs by schools, churches, and local agencies.