If you’re suffering from stress, you’re not alone. Stress, according to the World Health Organization, is the health epidemic of the 21st century. In the US alone, 55% of Americans are said to be stressed during the day, with Louisiana being the country’s most stressed state. Meanwhile, in Europe, Greece has won the title for being the most stressed country on the continent, with 59% of its people affected by the condition.
Although stress is a natural bodily reaction and can often act as a motivator for us, long-term stress can negatively impact our health and wellbeing. It’s therefore crucial to find ways to manage your stress and, in particular, to recognise when any stress-related symptoms become chronic.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the most reliable methods for dealing with stress effectively, for you to lead a calmer, healthier and ultimately happier life.
Take control
Try your best to manage whatever situation is causing you stress. A feeling of having no control is a main contributor to stress, so taking steps to tackle any difficulties you’re facing will not only give you a sense of empowerment but help you gain a foothold in any stressful situation you’re in.
Stay active
Exercising is not just about keeping fit and losing those pounds; it’s a highly effective way of relieving stress too. As well as distracting us from our worries, physical activity can improve our mood and increase the production of endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones.
Eat healthily
Following a healthy, balanced diet gives you the energy you need to handle any stress you’re experiencing. It can support your immune system, help repair damaged cells and regulate cortisol levels.
Get enough sleep
As stress has such a negative effect on our sleep, sleep becomes even more important during stressful times in our lives. A good night’s sleep can leave us feeling restored, calmer and better equipped to manage our stress.
Quieten your mind
Because so much of our stress starts off as thoughts, learning to switch off your mind could be one of the best things you could do for stress. Scientific studies have demonstrated that being in a meditative state can slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure and reduce blood adrenaline levels, effectively reversing the physiological signs of stress.
Connect with others
A good support network decreases our levels of anxiety and promotes a feeling of security. In times of stress, it’s especially important to have people you feel you can turn to, so you can talk through any issues you’re trying to resolve.
Think positively
Positive thinking is a key part of stress management, enabling you to cope better in stressful situations. Try this tip: At the end of each day, write down three things that went well that day or things that you feel grateful for. This will give you a different perspective and a more balanced outlook, allowing you to see the good things as well as the bad in your life.
For more on how gratitude can have a beneficial effect on your health, read our article ‘How Gratitude Can Improve Your life’.
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