April is National Stress Awareness Month and serves as an important reminder of the impact that stress can have on our physical and mental health. While stress is a normal part of life, sometimes that stress can feel overwhelming. If left unchecked, stress can lead to a number of major health problems, ranging anywhere from anxiety to severe depression.
Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and identifying what triggers your stress makes it easier to avoid stressful situations.
10 tips to reduce stress:
1. Develop healthy eating habits to help maintain the immune system
2. Get plenty of sleep
3. Exercise regularly – A very effective way to combat stress, releases endorphins in our bodies which help us feel good
4. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga
5. Avoid excessive use of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
6. Get outside – Fresh air and spending time in nature energize your mind and body
7. Take breaks from the news and social media – It’s important to stay informed, but constant and too much information can be stressful
8. Do something you enjoy – When we are very busy it’s easy to eliminate the things we enjoy from our schedule
9. Connect with others – Positive social support is proven by research to reduce stress and improve mental and physical health
10. Recognize when you need more help – Talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide professional guidance toward managing your stress-related anxiety symptoms is also helpful
Stress Awareness Month is the perfect time to evaluate your own stress level and learn more about ways you can help manage any anxiety over time.
Visit your employee benefits portal or reach out to a benefits counselor to discover how your benefits can provide access to helpful tools, resources, and support.
