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10 Ways to Help Manage Stress

1.    Identify primary sources of Stress; eliminate those sources that you can; develop a plan to handle those sources that you cannot change.

2.    Stay healthy: exercise regularly; get enough rest, maintain a balanced diet.

3.    Avoid or reduce using drugs and alcohol:  alcohol, marijuana, and other depressants or stimulants reduce your body's ability to prevent illness and reduce your body's ability to handle stress.

4.    Spend time with people who offer you the type of support that is meaningful to you.  Spending time with your pets is also great for unconditional attention.

5.    Anticipate and prepare yourself and your family for changes and problems or obstacles: knowing what to expect reduces stress.

6.    Devote time and energy to activities you enjoy.

7.    Learn Relaxation techniques:  take time out of your day to slow your breathing down and to calm your body.  Breath in slowly for 6 counts and fill your lungs to capacity and then breath out through your mouth for 6 more counts and repeat 8 times minimum.  Think to yourself as you breath "relax your body", "relax your mind."

8.    When feeling intensely angry or stressed, take a time-out away from the situation to calm down before making any further decision or reaction.

9.    Set realistic goals which take into account your limits and the limits of others close to you.  Begin by recognizing your needs and then setting your goals.

10.    Identify which methods help you to handle your stress, and structure time into your weekly schedule to do them.