Feeling consistently stressed can impact both your physical and mental health. Due to the consequences on a person's well-being, many health groups provide services to help patients minimize and manage their stress. Learn more below on how you can take control of your behavioral health by learning how to control stress levels in your body.

How to Manage Stress

1. Get Good Sleep

Sleep can have a huge impact on your mind and body; not getting enough of it can throw off your entire day. Being overly stressed can cause insomnia, making it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep, which then ironically increases stress levels. You can set yourself up for better sleep habits by exercising for 30 minutes a day, not drinking caffeine in the second half of the day, and setting a schedule for when you get up and go to bed. 

2. Critique Yourself Positively

When things go wrong in everyday life, don't let them wear you down. Learn to talk to yourself in a controlled, even-tempered manner. Imagine you're talking to someone else — it's unlikely you would speak to a good friend the same way you speak to yourself when you make mistakes. Using this positive habit will help you transition to more optimistic and less stressful thinking.

3. Distract Yourself With Excercise

Exercise makes your body feel healthier and can make it easier to fall asleep at night, and both of these occurrences can directly impact your stress levels. Working out is a great way to get your mind off of current stressful circumstances, whether you do it independently or in a group class. It will also make your body stronger and make you more confident in yourself, encouraging positive mental health. 

If you want professional help in getting your stress under control, visit Affinity Health Group in Monroe, LA. This health group caters to various specialties, including behavioral health, and can supply social services related to that specialty. They provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and outpatient services for the people that need them. You can learn more about their behavioral health services on their website or call (318) 807-4900 to schedule an appointment.