Stress and anxiety plays a part in most people's lives on a daily basis. Although it’s virtually impossible to completely eliminate the things that cause stress and anxiety, there are things you can do to minimize the impact they have on your life. Dealing with stress and anxiety is important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Step 1
Pay attention to the specific things that cause stress in your life. If you don’t identify what is causing the stress, there’s no way to treat it, according to California Polytechnic State University. Write down the major factors causing you stress and anxiety.
Step 2
Turn to friends and family members for support. Sometimes all it takes to reduce the stress and anxiety you feel is to talk about what you’re going through, according to Clemson University. Find a family member you trust who is a good listener and tell her about your problems. She might even be able to help provide useful solutions for helping you deal with your stress.
Step 3
Practice breathing techniques. When stress hits you, breathing exercises can help slow your heartbeat and lower your blood pressure. Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth with your eyes closed until the physical symptoms of stress have stopped or at least subsided.
Step 4
Start exercising. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels in most people, according to Clemson University. Establish a regular workout routine and even go out for a run or hit the gym if you feel like you’ve had a particularly stressful day.
Step 5
Create an environment at home where you feel safe and relaxed and retreat to it after a long day. Whether it’s curled up on the couch with a good book and the phone off or in front of the fireplace with a warm cup of coffee, create a “you” space where you can detach from everyone else and get your mind of whatever is causing you stress.
Step 6
Unplug from all the excess technology in your life. Checking e-mail and phone messages too often can make you feel overloaded, according to Texas Women’s University. Create a daily schedule of two or three times a day when you’ll check your e-mail and respond to messages.
Things You'll Need
- Friend or family member
