Managing Stress

The effects of emotional stress on the body

Many people face difficult challenges and responsibilities that may overlap or conflict. These cause stress that can affect both their emotional and physical health. Stress can come from troubles at home, in relationships, and in the workplace.

Emotional stress can lead to these problems:

• High blood pressure

• More likely to become ill or to abuse drugs or alcohol

• Less able to fight disease

• Depression

• Insomnia

Tips to reduce or manage the stress in your life

• Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. A healthy, well-balanced diet and exercise can keep your body fit and able to fight disease. Exercise also is an excellent way to lift your mood.

• Talk about your stressful situations with someone you trust. This can be a partner, a close friend, or a professional counselor. Sometimes just talking about your problems and concerns can help you put them into perspective. It can also give you insights into ways to deal with them.

• Stay organized to help manage your time more efficiently. Think about making a daily list of things that need to be done, with the most important item the first on the list.

• Remember, no one can do it all alone. Ask for help.

• Use relaxation methods to calm your mind and body.

• Take a break. Go for a walk, close your eyes and sit quietly for 10 minutes, or go outside for some fresh air, no matter the weather.

• Get professional help if you need it.