Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

Try to make sure that you use some methods from each section, to give yourself a balanced approach to stress management.

Think about it

Thinking - Analysing the problem: brainstorming; identifying solutions; deciding priorities and goals, planning, obtaining information or resources.
Utilising other people - Asking for help or advice; asserting your wants and needs; challenging someone who causes the stress.
The organisation or system - Telling people in power your views; helping them make a case for change; joining a special interest group.

Take your mind off it

People - Conversing about topics not related to source of stress; helping someone else.
Hobbies - Activities that keep you mentally and physically busy; physical exercise.
Interests - Taking an interest in something not related to the source of stress, eg, support a football team.

Look after yourself

Rest - Take proper breaks; relaxation exercises; getting away from stressful situations; holidays or weekends away.
Diet - Eating proper meals; eating foods that pleases you; restricting intake of alcohol, caffeine and other drugs.
Luxuriating - Giving yourself a treat, eg buying something special; meeting friends for a drink or a meal; a hot bath; taking a sauna; having a massage.

Express your emotions

Expressing your feelings verbally - Unburdening to a friend, colleague or counsellor; writing down your uncensored feelings, then tearing up the paper; joining a support group
Letting go - Letting off steam without abusing anyone; having a good cry; screaming, swearing or shouting into a pillow or in the privacy of your own home.
Creative emotional expression - Writing poetry; painting; writing; sculpting; playing a musical instrument; singing; dancing.