Stress SOS: Tips to Chill By

Mind

Susanna Bourgeois of the NC Department of Health and Human Services recommends, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff."

Stress SOS: Tips to chill by

Women often lead stressful lives - juggling careers, children, family, and friends. And stress can greatly affect health.

The body's reaction to stress can lead to insomnia, back pain, colitis, high blood pressure, ulcers, and heart disease. Symptoms of stress may include rapid heart beat, rapid breathing, tense muscles, increased blood pressure, irritability, losing one's temper, lack of concentration and feeling anxious.

While you probably can't eliminate all stress, and some stress may help us to be productive, you can have more control than you thought. You can decide on ways to minimize the negative effects of stress on your health.

Check off the strategies that you are using and commit to trying out at least one new approach next week for managing stress.

	Don't try to do it all. No one expects you to be superwoman. Be realistic about your abilities and learn to say 'no.'
	When you feel overwhelmed, take things one at a time.
	Be willing to ask for help and to share responsibilities. Be honest with yourself and others about what you can and cannot do.
	Share your feelings; don't bottle things in. Look for people who will encourage you.
	For stressful situations that you can predict, plan ahead, and arrange a plan 'B' in case things don't work out.
	Do things you enjoy. Maintain a variety of interests, activities, and relationships to help keep your mind off your worries.
	Give yourself a break from time to time - whether it's a walk around the block, some peace and quiet, or a real vacation.
	Get enough sleep. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which may rob you of sleep.
	Exercise. It's a great stress reducer and good for the mind as well as the body.
	Build in relaxation time. Meditate, practice yoga, think of pleasant things, or try to think of nothing at all.
	Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eat regular meals - hunger can worsen stress.

[Adapted from The National Women's Health Information Center, 800-994-9662, www.4woman.org]

See also ...

This Time 's for You

What Do You Do... Just For YOU?

HOME | ABOUT ORCHID | ARTICLE LIST | ORCHID RESOURCES | CONTACT ORCHID

NC Office on Disability and Health