Stress Management Techniques

Stress management begins with recognizing that you are experiencing stress symptoms. You need to know what these symptoms are so that you can deal with them in an effective and timely manner. Once you recognize them, you can learn how to cope with the stress in your life.

Stress has become so prevalent in our society that many have come to accept it as normal and just part of life.

While it is true that stress in small and short doses is normal and required to keep us motivated and sometimes safe, it is when this stress becomes an ongoing occurrence that it becomes a concern.

Studies reveal that people who are under prolonged periods of stress have increased rates of:

cardiovascular disease
gastrointestinal problems
depression
ruined relationships with their peers and family members
inability to fight infections

It is virtually impossible to get rid of all the stress in your life.

Unfortunately, you cannot control if your car breaks down and results in an extra bill, or if your aging parents need you to care for them. Instead, you need to learn how to reduce the stresses in your life, and cope with those that you cannot eliminate.

This is what stress management is all about. It involves learning how to control your life, rather than letting your life control you!

Begin by identifying the sources of stress in your life.

Not everyone is the same. What your best friend finds stressful might be something that you thrive on or look forward to taking on. For example, some people find that public speaking is very stressful, while others love presenting to others. If you're one of those that find it stressful, then perhaps you have to eliminate that stress in your life.

If you cannot completely eliminate the stress, then you need to learn how to cope with it.

This may mean that you have to ensure that you have adequate time to prepare for your presentation, and to practice it. It may also mean that you need to join a Toastmasters class. Therefore, if you can become more prepared to deal with the stresses in your life, the better you will be able to handle them.

Find a balance in your life

This is another important method of stress management. This means learning to balance work and play.

Ways you can do this include:

Finding hobbies and activities that you enjoy that can take your mind off the stresses in your life.
Exercise is one example of an activity that is a very beneficial stress reliever. It allows an outlet for the release of anger and frustration that can build up when you are stressed. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins in your body, which are known to lessen pain and increase your sense of well-being, and can increase your overall energy levels.

Other methods of relieving stress include:

Not taking on everything that comes your way
Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps in order not to get overwhelmed.
Getting enough sleep is another important factor that is often overlooked when dealing with stress. The better rested you are, the easier it is to deal with life's challenges.
Delegating tasks to others who can help you out.

In summary, stress management involves recognizing that you are experiencing stress, and then taking steps towards decreasing or eliminating it. Once you begin to do that, then you can begin living a healthier lifestyle.