Managing Stress

Whether it’s the economy, your employment situation, health or family issues, chances are you're dealing with a significant amount of stress. Managing that stress well can mean the difference between feeling vaguely OK and in control or finding yourself seriously ill.

Explore some of these simple measures for handling stress:

Turn off the radio, TV, computer
Tuning out all the bad news for a while can significantly reduce your stress. In our 24-hour news cycle, the same dire reports often get replayed again and again without adding new information or useful perspective.

Control what you can
Work out a budget, identify a plan, get advice from a professional or friend. Taking concrete action to address your situation prevents you from feeling powerless.

Closely examine how you're currently handling stress
If you have not identified that helps you relax-music, exercise, meditation, cooking, writing, long walks-try a few out. The more you consciously seek out healthy outlets, the less likely you are to fall into unhealthy ones like smoking, eating poorly, drinking to excess or withdrawing from friends and family.

Stay connected
“Many hands make light work” the expression goes, and many hands can lighten one’s load. Stay in touch with family and friends. You may be surprised how many people are in the same boat or can help you navigate yours.

Ask for help
Whether it's reaching out to a friend, colleague or professional, none of us needs to face life's difficulties on our own.

And stay active!
Visit your YMCA for ideas on how to stay fit, healthy, and stress-free. Click here to contact your local branch.