STRESS MANAGEMENT

STRESS. It's a part of everyone's life. It's tough to juggle work, family, friends and personal life. It's tough to manage all areas of life. But there are ways to get it all done. Take a look on how to manage your time, manage stress and also manage to have fun at the same time without getting stressed.

It is important to understand that everyone feels stress.

A little stress is OK. But too much of it can ruin your mood, your day and your functioning.

YOU ARE STRESSED IF…

  • You have disturbed sleep (nightmares, sleeping too less or sleeping too much)
  • You feel nervous at all times.
  • You forget important things.
  • You get sick a lot.
  • You want to QUIT.

TAKE TIME OUT

  • Walk around. Clear your mind. Relax. Breathe in and out slowly.
  • Close your eyes and picture your favorite place.
  • Taking a few minutes to regroup your thoughts can help you get a handle on stress.
  • You are important
  • Eat well. You'll be able to handle stress better.
  • Exercise. It's one of the best ways to help with stress.
  • If there is no time to exercise? Walk around, stretch at your desk. Take the stairs.
  • Don't use drugs, alcohol or tobacco. They are likely to create more stress.
  • Sleep well - Without sleep you can't think straight or make good decisions.
  • Try to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep at night.
  • An all-nighter may seem like a good idea to catch up on things but you may fall asleep the next day right in middle of the day.

SHARE YOUR PROBLEMS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

  • It helps to talk things over with someone close. You'll feel less alone.
  • Always remember – It is OK to ask for help...you can't do it all
  • Learn to say NO to less important activities. You'll have more time to focus on what really matters.

REMEMBER: Being too busy is a big source of stress.

PLAN AHEAD

  • Take a few minutes each night to organize the next day.
  • Always keep your daily necessities and other important things at the same place to avoid last-minute panics.
  • Consider making a weekly schedule. Include time for study, exercise, family, friends and work.

TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME

  • You may feel extra stress at certain specic times - during an illness, exam or a major crisis.
  • Take a deep breath. Then use the tip above to get through it.
  • Plan a reward for yourself when the crunch is over.
  • If you feel like you can't get through it, talk to a doctor or counselor.

IT'S NOT THE LOAD THAT BREAKS YOU DOWN, IT'S THE WAY YOU CARRY IT
LOU HOLTZ