Stress… something we all know too well.

Thankfully, there are many practical and helpful tools we can use for managing stress when it starts to affect us negatively. (P.S. Not all stress is bad stress, but that’s a topic for another time.) Let’s get right to it…

• DO something. Please, please, do not just push it all away, bury it, and leave it somewhere to rot and die. That’s never a good option and creates more problems on every level- physical, emotional, mental, spiritual… just trust me, DON’T ignore your stress.

Delegate the low priority tasks that you identified in #2. Even though it might not be done how you would like… ration your energy and hand off some tasks that others can do. Maybe this means letting your assistant respond to low priority emails… hiring someone to clean your house… letting the kids “wash” the dishes… or bribing your younger brother with leftover holiday candy to do one of your chores (okay, make sure you clear that by your parents first)… but you get the idea. You don’t have to do it all yourself.

Watch one episode of your favorite show [note: I did not say binge watch your favorite show for the next 3 days].
Go for a walk… look at the sky, trees, and stop and smell the flowers.
Put on your favorite song and have a quick dance party.
Basically… do something that you enjoy.

If you are a person of faith… take time to pray. Ask God to help you keep what is really important in mind. Pray for patience, wisdom, and self-control while you manage your stress. Search the Scriptures and remind yourself of God’s truth regarding stressful circumstances. Don’t forget to keep eternity in mind.

Okay, now you’ve read some tips for stress management, however, they will be of no use to you unless you put them into practice! Which one will you start with?

If you realize that you’re too stressed and would benefit from professional help, reach out to me to discuss how we can work together to help you improve your wellbeing.

By Amy Neal MA, LCMHC
January 5, 2020
Categories: Anxiety treatment, Mental Health, Stress Management, Health and Wellness