Self-Care Tips For Stress

By Candice McKinney, MA

Stress is something we have all experienced at some point in our lives. However chronic stress can lead to many other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. It is important to slow down and take an inventory of not only our stressors, but also our responses to work, school, social, and personal stress. Finding ways we can prepare our minds and body for life stressors is necessary.

Common reactions to stressful events include:

Disbelief, shock and numbness
Feeling sad, frustrated and helpless
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Headaches, back pains and stomach problems
Smoking or the use of alcohol or drugs

The following are some basic tips on how we can prepare ourselves to properly handle stress:

Find ways to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. Eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and even coloring are ways to give yourself a break if you feel stressed.
Share your problems and how you are feeling with a mental health professional, doctor, family member, pastor or friend.
Avoid using drugs or alcohol and other self-coping mechanisms that are harmful. These tactics create additional problems and increase stress you already are feeling.
Lastly, find moments for mindfulness and journaling. These are great options for releasing the emotions you are feeling.