Does it seem like stress, anxiety and depression have become the new normal in the past several weeks? Everyone in this area was affected to varying degrees. As time passes, for some, this will increase in severity. For some, it will ease. But we are all changed by the recent events.

You’re going to have some stress in your life — we all do, and it’s normal. One of the best things you can do for your health is managing that stress, even when you can’t control the source of it.
Some stress can be good. It can be a challenge that keeps us alert, motivated, and ready to avoid danger. But too much stress can make us sick. And it can bring on or worsen certain symptoms or diseases, research shows.

If you’re constantly under stress, you can have physical symptoms, such as headaches, an upset stomach, high blood pressure, chest pain, and problems with sex and sleep.

Stress can also lead to emotional problems, depression, panic attacks, or other forms of anxiety and worry. It’s not just the stress itself that’s the problem. It’s how you respond to it. For instance, if you smoke, use drugs, overeat, gamble, or spend too much, that’s going to cause more problems.

Recognizing that you are stressed and that it is affecting your health is the first step. The next step is taking charge of the stress and putting coping skills in place.

Eat a healthy diet

Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat. Start your day right with breakfast and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day. Reduce caffeine and sugar.

When you’re stressed, the last thing you probably feel like doing is getting up and exercising. But physical activity is a huge stress reliever—and you don’t have to be an athlete or spend hours in a gym to experience the benefits. Exercise releases endorphins that make you feel good, and it can also serve as a valuable distraction from your daily worries. While you’ll get the most benefit from regularly exercising for 30 minutes or more, it’s okay to build up your fitness level gradually. Even very small activities can add up over the course of a day. The first step is to get yourself up and moving.

Set aside leisure time. Include rest and relaxation in your daily schedule. Don’t allow other obligations to encroach. This is your time to take a break from all responsibilities and recharge your batteries.

Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and drugs

Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs may provide an easy escape from stress, but the relief is only temporary. Don’t avoid or mask the issue at hand; deal with problems head on and with a clear mind.

Do something you enjoy every day. Make time for leisure activities that bring you joy, whether it be stargazing, playing the piano, or working on your bike.

Keep your sense of humor

This includes the ability to laugh at yourself. The act of laughing helps your body fight stress in a number of ways.

The ultimate goal is a balanced life, with time for work, relationships, relaxation, and fun—and the resilience to hold up under pressure and meet challenges head on. But stress management is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why it’s important to experiment and find out what works best for you.
If you think your stress is affecting your health, talk to your doctor so you can start making changes that will be good for your body and your mind.

Experiment and find out what works best for you.

If you think your stress is affecting your health, talk to your doctor, so you can start making changes that will be good for your body and your mind.