Managing Daily Stresses

I thought this would be a poignant blog post this week. I haven’t ever been so stressed as I currently am in my whole life. Yes…. Coronavirus is to blame for this! All I want to do is close my eyes and just forgot it all but I don’t, I keep going and therefore I want to try and help others tackle theirs too! 

 Do you ever find that even the simplest tasks and conversations can become overwhelming and too much to handle? Have you ever just wanted to scream or break down and cry because your head is racing with so many unfinished tasks? If so, you may be experiencing high levels of stress. In this day and age, everyone seems to lead very complicated and fast-paced lives filled with what seems like ever ending tasks and commitments. Often times, it can be hard to see through all the fog, and understand what is and isn’t important. Learning how to effectively manage stress can help you be happier, healthier, and even more productive. It  is easier said than done. 

• What is causing you to worry?Here you really need to be specific and figure out the exact reason you’re feeling stressed, anxious or worried.

• Why is this causing you to worry? Are you stressed because this event, person, or thing has a direct impact on you, or are you just worried for the sake of being worried?

• Do you take responsibility for your stress? Are you blaming other people, events, and circumstances for the way you are feeling.

• Do you define “being stressed” as part of your personality? Do you consider yourself a nervous, anxious or stressed person?

• Do you consider the stress to only be temporary? Do you feel stressed because you “have a lot going on right now?

• How do you currently cope with stress? Do you already have tools and mechanisms in place to help you deal with day-to-day stress as well as situational stress? How are your coping mechanisms working for you?

You need to remember to take care of your body and mind: One of the most important ways to prevent stress and emotional overload is to take care of your body and mind. Did you eat enough today? Have you gotten proper sleep? Are you exercising?

• Exercise: Just thirty minutes a day of exercise can raise your endorphin levels and decrease stress. Working out, going for a run, or lifting weights can help you take out any anger or frustration and leave you feeling much more relaxed.

• Eat Properly: When you don’t eat enough during the day you are putting unnecessary stress on your body, and you’ll start to get headaches and generally feel weak and tired. Make sure you carry snacks with you at all times and eat balanced meals throughout the day.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water is one of the best ways to keep a clear and sharp mind. When you don’t have enough water in your system you will start to feel weak, tired, and you won’t be able to think clearly. Bring a water bottle to work and constantly re-fill it throughout the day.

Avoid Unnecessary Stress

Are there certain topics or issues that stress you out and make you feel overwhelmed? If so, avoid those topics and focus on things that help you stay relaxed and prevent you from getting irritated.

• Stay Away from Negative People: Don’t hang out with people who stress you out or have a negative attitude. If someone is negatively impacting your mental well-being it is best to simply not hang out with them.

• Know Your Limits: Know what you can and can’t handle. Don’t do things just because other people are doing them, do them because you want to do them. If you know you’re too tired to go on a hike, then don’t go. If you have a lot going on during the week but your friends want to hang out on the weekend, take time to think if that’s too much for you to handle. Learn how to say no.

• Take control of your life: If watching the news, calling home to your parents, or something else makes you anxious and stressed. Don’t do it. Avoid watching the news, and tell your parent’s you’ll call them during a better time.

There are many different ways of dealing with stress, but not every stress management technique works for everyone. Find something that works for you and stick to it. You’ll be happier in the long run if you can learn how to properly manage your stress. When you’re a happier person, that will reflect on those around you. Managing stress can be hard, so take it day by day, and even hour by hour if you need to. Do whatever you need to do to keep your stress at a healthy level, and you’ll be much happier and healthier.

Bye for now Xx