Coping During Stressful Times
There are many ways you and your loved ones can manage stress during this time. Below are some stress reduction tactics that experts agree really do work. Even doing one of these things can make a difference. Perhaps you can take advantage of two or three.
Physical Self-Care
- Sleep: Sleep 8 or more hours each night
- Exercise: Exercise daily–even walking or stretching reduces stress
- Nutrition: Keep regular mealtimes, eat healthy foods, and stay hydrated
- Relaxation: Take time to relax daily
- Nature: Spend time in “green spaces” and nature
Structure
- Daily routines: Pattern your day into familiar, comfortable routines
- Limit work: Limit work hours for healthy work/life balance
- Limit electronic media: Especially, limit time with social media or news that is negative or stressful
- Atmosphere: Organize or beautify your home to make it a pleasant, relaxing place
Social Coping
- Social support: Talk to supportive people; spend quality time with loved ones and pets
- Action: Take action to change your world for the better (even a little)
- Compassion: Practice compassion for yourself and others
- Kindness: Practice kindness to yourself and others
Emotional Coping
- Acceptance: Accept what is not yours to change
- Gratitude: Practice feeling grateful for good things, however small
- Optimism: Practice thinking optimistically
- Distraction: To interrupt negative thoughts, find a pleasant distracting activity
Spiritual Wellness
- Experience Awe: Let yourself feel awed by whatever awes you, whether it be God, nature, art, or a sleeping baby
- Values: Live according to your values
- Creativity: Express yourself in art, music, writing, dance, cooking, crafts, building, or home projects
- Mindfulness/Spirituality: Meditate or pray in your own way daily
Resources
- See our Resources page for more information.
Organizations Supporting Mental Health
Reputable organizations providing mental health information and support include:
Mental Health Apps
Popular apps to support mental health:
Breathe2Relax, Calm, Headspace, Mood Coach, Virtual Hope Box