Ways to Effectively Manage Stress

Regardless of the current level of stress in your life or how effective your coping mechanisms have been in the past, everyone could benefit from improving their stress management practices. Stress may be linked to a particular area in your life, however stress is often a function of several things including life adjustments, daily routines, unrealistic expectations and relationships. The following coping mechanisms may be useful if you determine that stressors in your life need to be tolerated.

1. Managing your stress is enhanced by maintaining a healthy mind and body. This includes:

• A nutritious diet
• A regular exercise routine
• An adequate amount of sleep on a consistent basis
• Activities that you consider relaxing. Relying on supportive friends and family and rewarding yourself with "free time" when you accomplish your goals may enhance a healthy mind.

2. Setting "realistic expectations" for your self. This is true in both the workplace and personal relationships.

3. The final strategy for stress management is "maximizing your resources." You have a limited supply of time and energy. These limits may vary depending on your lifestyle and your ability to set limits. As you work to maximize your time, remember that no one is going to give you more. Build in relaxation time to your schedule. In setting short-term and long-term goals, make them as objective as possible.
In order for these skills to be effective in managing your stress, they need to be utilized continuously as your level of stress fluctuates. Many of the mechanisms are most effective when put to use early.

For more information on effective stress management contact your Employee Assistance Program at x6-4600