It is no secret that stress and anxiety can take a toll on our mental health. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, millions of adults in the United States suffer from some type of anxiety disorder. If you are one of those people or know someone who is, read on for six crucial considerations when trying to reduce stress and anxiety for improved mental health!
Identify Your Triggers for Stress and Anxiety
The first step to reducing stress and anxiety is to identify your triggers. What are the things, people, or situations that tend to make you feel stressed or anxious? Once you know what your triggers are, you can start to take steps to avoid them or deal with them in a better way. You should also keep a journal to track your triggers and how you feel after exposure to them.
Having a support system is crucial when trying to reduce stress and anxiety. Whether it’s a group of friends, family members, or even a therapist, having someone to talk to about your stress and anxiety can make a world of difference. Knowing that you have someone who understands what you’re going through and can offer support can help you feel less alone and more capable of dealing with your stress and anxiety.
Avoid or Limit Your Exposure to Your Triggers
If possible, avoid or limit your exposure to your triggers. This may mean changing your route to avoid the place that always makes you feel anxious or setting boundaries with someone who is triggering. If you can’t avoid your triggers completely, try to limit your exposure to them. For example, if you know you get anxious when you are around large groups of people, try to go to events that are not too crowded. Or, if you get stressed out when you have a lot on your plate, try to simplify your schedule and only commit to what is necessary.
Create a Coping Plan
Once you know what your triggers are, that cause you stress and anxiety, and how to avoid or limit your exposure to them, you can start to create a coping plan. This should be a step-by-step plan that you can follow when you are feeling stressed or anxious. Your coping plan should include things like deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and visualization. It is essential to have a plan in place so that you know what to do when you are feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, make sure to practice your coping skills regularly so that they become second nature to you.
Use natural products to avoid stress and anxiety
Many products on the market can help you wind down and relax before bedtime. However, not all of them are natural. If you’re looking for a more natural way to reduce stress and anxiety, consider using essential oils or herbal teas. Essential oils such as lavender oil can be used in a diffuser to fill the room with calming aromatherapy. Herbal teas such as chamomile or lemon balm tea can also help promote relaxation. You can also use these Delta 8 THC Vape Carts to help you relax before bedtime.
Get enough sleep
One of the most important things you can do to reduce stress and anxiety is to get enough sleep. Sleep gives your body and mind a chance to rest and recover from the day’s activities. It also allows you to reset your cortisol levels, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. If you’re not getting enough sleep, your body will be under more stress, and your cortisol levels will be higher. This can lead to a cycle of poor sleep and increased stress and anxiety. To improve your sleep, make sure you’re getting 7-8 hours per night and that you have a regular sleep schedule. You should also avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as they can disrupt your sleep.
Take breaks throughout the day
Another way to reduce stress and anxiety is to take breaks throughout the day. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, step away from whatever is causing you stress and take a few minutes to yourself. Go for a walk, listen to music, or just sit in silence. Taking a break will help you clear your head and return to whatever you are doing with fresh energy. Additionally, make sure you’re taking vacation days and using all of your paid time off. This will allow you to take extended breaks from work and come back feeling refreshed and less stressed.
If you’re struggling with stress and anxiety, know that you’re not alone. Millions of people deal with these issues on a daily basis. However, there are many things you can do to reduce stress and anxiety. By following these tips, you can start to feel better and improve your mental health.
I always try to stick with the natural products if I can. Great tips Nancy,
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Author
Thank you very much Jodie!
Sleep really helps! I have been going to be earlier and feel so much better during the day. Most of my stressors are things that can be easily managed and some avoided. Taking family vacations is away for our family to destress and bond.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Author
Yes, we are going in earlier to, that really akes a difference. Great way to destress!
Great advice, Nancy! That said if nothing is working, like happened to me, a low dose serotonin reuptake inhibitor might be a good option. Here is the US that requires prescription.
Michelle
https://funkyfashionstyle.com
Author
Thanks for the tip Michelle!
I’ve been under lots of stress and although I clearly know what my triggers are, there’s currently not much I can do about them, or even avoid them. Luckily, I have been sleeping well, which is a great help. Not sure where I’d be otherwise … xxx
Author
I am very sorry Ann, I know your neighbour creates a lot of it. But be happy that you can sleep well. This too shall pass.
I’m all for a relaxing day after a hectic week or just some small breaks during the day!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
Author
Indeed, there should be enough time to unwind!
I should have read this earlier today before having a hissy fit over no being able to find my the cord to my sewing machine. There were several cursey words filling the air!
Thanks for sharing, Nancy!
Author
Haha, keep on ventilating darling!
Knowing your triggers and also learning healthier ways of responding to them are great tips to manage stress and anxiety.
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Author
They are indeed, thanks hun!
Very good tips! We actually have very stressful times. Friendly greetings!
Author
Yes it is a scary world isn’t t!
This is such a wonderful post, Nancy! You know I am all for natural remedies for stress and anxiety and anything else that life causes! THC products have helped me tremendously for dealing with anxiety and so has yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, massage therapy, Reiki, and all the other Eastern healing traditions that can make our lives a little bit easier and more peaceful. I will be featuring this post on Tuesday’s #SpreadTheKindness Link Up!
Shelbee
Author
Ah thanks Shelbee! I missed it because I was in bed yesterday all day. But I will re read it all.
Getting enough sleep makes a huge difference, as does eating well. Listening to music always destresses me too.
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Author
Oh yes, it often does that to me too!
This post was so well-done. Thank you. Just knowing that other people experience the same thing is really helpful to me. Thank you for sharing, Nancy. xx
Author
Thank you very much!