Stress is a broad term used to define when an individual is experiencing physical, emotional, or mental tension or strain. According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, stress is on the rise, with more than 44% of survey responders noting their stress levels have increased over the last five years. To bring attention to this critical issue, April is officially National Stress Awareness month. In honor of this campaign, here are a few doctor-approved do’s and don’ts to help you cope with these emotions on a daily basis. 

Do:

Embrace exercise.

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that improve your mood, energize you, and help you maintain excellent sleep patterns. As such, physical activity is a crucial part of any stress-management plan. In fact, roughly 30% of adults and teenagers say they feel less stressed out after exercising. 

Talk to your doctor.

Stress can become more than just an inconvenience. In fact, studies have found connections between stress and both physical and mental health issues. Since ongoing tension is linked to cardiovascular problems, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, depression, and anxiety, it’s important to talk to your doctor about how you feel so you can explore solutions together. 

Don’t:

Forget about self-care.

Since stress can lead to sadness, feeling overwhelmed, irritability, or lack of focus, prioritizing healthy forms of self-care is highly recommended. By finding time to take a walk, unplug, meditate, treat yourself to a massage, or simply show gratitude to your loved ones, you can manage stress levels and reduce the temptation of exploring negative vices such as smoking, drinking, or poor nutrition. 

Ignore your routine.

During stressful times, one can start to feel powerless or overwhelmed by tasks and responsibilities. To navigate these situations, remember to focus on your daily routine. Performing the same activities, whether it be making your bed, having breakfast with your family, or listening to classical music on your way to work, can provide comfort and in turn, can help you cope with your stress. 

Managing stress isn’t something you have to do on your own. The compassionate doctors at 1st Choice Healthcare in Corning, AR, are here to provide personalized medical care that can help you cope with your emotions. The non-profit clinic has been serving the community since 1994 with a variety of resources, including mental health services, immunizations, wellness exams, and nutritional counseling. Call today at (870) 857-3399 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information on their approach to friendly, accessible care.