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Clinical Corner


Stress Management Techniques

Stress Awareness

Everyone deals with stress sometimes—that feeling of pressure or tension when we’re faced with a challenge or demand. In small doses, stress helps us meet deadlines or even escape dangerous situations. But when stress builds for too long with too much intensity, it can negatively affect us physically and mentally. Since stressors are always around us, it’s important to be aware of what ours are and early signs they’re impacting us so we can better manage things before they get too intense or overwhelming.

Signs of Chronic Stress

Stressors are any event, situation, or relationship that causes you to feel stress. That feeling sparks the stress response cycle to help you respond appropriately. But if that cycle isn’t closed, the body and mind don’t get relief and the stress can become chronic, which leads to burnout.

Signs to look out for include:

Disrupted sleep
Decreased productivity
Lack of motivation
Poor decision-making
Moodiness / irritability
Gastrointestinal issues
Headaches
Tension
High blood pressure

 

 

How to Manage Stress

As much as you’re able, you’ll want to take action sooner than later if you notice a stressor doesn’t resolve. Things like journaling and mindfulness can help you be more aware of your feelings and better assess how stress impacts your day-to-day life. And luckily, we’ve got a bunch of practices you can try if you’re looking for ways to better manage stress.

Prioritize Relaxation
Take time and space to just “be.” Practice mindfulness or breath-work each day to get quiet and centered. Take time off work, if possible, to stay balanced.
Move Your Body
Regular exercise helps relieve tension and boost your mood / overall positivity. Find a routine that works for your body and schedule so you want to stick with it.
Eat Nourishing Foods
Proper nutrition is essential for overall wellbeing. To start, try eating more whole foods and staying hydrated.
Get Better / More Rest
Quality sleep is key for managing stress. Ideally, you want 7 to 9 hours nightly. Implementing a good sleep hygiene practice can help if you’re struggling to fall or stay asleep.
Be Kind to Yourself
Harsh self-talk prevents growth while compassionate self-talk encourages it. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate life’s stressors.
Make Time for Things You Enjoy
Dedicate a certain amount of time (that’s realistic for your schedule) each day or week for things that help you feel positive and supported like hobbies, hanging out with friends, getting out in nature, etc.

 

Want to explore more about stress management?

Connect with your Care Team or therapist to identify your needs, work on self-awareness, and get support along the way.