Stress management: Take care of yourself, then others

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  • Stress management: Take care of yourself, then others
    Stress management: Take care of yourself, then others
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I know I have mentioned stress management often; however, I feel it is incredibly important to discuss it again.

We are isolated from one another due to this pandemic, many of us are facing financial and employment troubles, and we are seeing discomforting news regardless which media outlet we consume. Some of us may be at home with children, others are working long hours, and we are stressed out.

Here are some basic stress management tips:

• Get outside. Go for a walk, a jog, or a run. Play a game with your children. Work in the yard. Throw a ball for your dog. Whatever activity you choose, get outside, enjoy the sunshine and fresh air each day. Make exercise part of your daily routine whether it be indoor or outdoor activity.

• Watch your diet. If you are anything like me, you might lean on sweets or salty snacks to help get you through stressful times. What we eat matters. Try to eat a balanced diet and avoid fatty, salty, and sweet snacks. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and sugary drinks. You can go to https://www.myplate.gov/ to learn more about healthy eating.

• Get enough sleep. Many people have problems sleeping when they are experiencing stress: Sleeping too much or not enough, and having trouble going to sleep or trouble staying asleep. Avoiding caffeine after 5 pm seems to help many people, in addition to practicing a good sleep hygiene ritual. The American Sleep Association offers several helpful tips to get to sleep at https://www. sleepassociation. org/about-sleep/ sleep-hygiene-tips/ . Some of the basics include decreasing screen time, developing a sleep routine, avoiding napping, and having a quiet and comfortable room to sleep in.

• Practice mindfulness and adopt an attitude of gratitude. Research mindfulness exercises online or at the library to help learn to relax and take things as they come. Do a mental self check each day: How are you doing? How are you feeling? What do you need to be well? Lastly, expressing gratitude helps to appreciate the things in our lives that are going right and helps keep a positive attitude and feel less stress.

• Do one thing each day just for you. There is a saying in recovery, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” What this means to me is that I cannot take care of others if I do not take care of myself. Find something that helps you fill your cup. While I like a cozy chair and a good book or going for a drive and listening to music, others might like something else.

• Learn that “no” is a complete sentence. Say no to projects, events, tasks, and being volunteered or overburdened with obligations. Know your limit and say no when you cannot do more and maintain wellness.

Stress management skills help us cope with stress when we are overwhelmed. Taking care of yourself helps you perform better at work, at home, and in relationships.

If you are struggling, reach out for help. There are local agencies with licensed clinicians trained to help. There are support groups available online and in person.

The library is full of self-help books. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member. You do not have to struggle alone. I sincerely wish you all a lowstress week.

Sarah Mears-Ivy brings 13 years of experience in the field of human sciences and advocacy.