Stress is something some people feel when things change or get tough. It can be good or bad. For example, when you bring home a new baby, you might feel both happy and worried. As a new parent, you want to do everything right, which helps keep you and the baby safe. But if you keep feeling worried and can't relax, that's bad stress.
Some things that make us feel stressed are work, money, family duties and health worries. When we're stressed, our bodies react in different ways. We might feel really tired, get headaches, have high blood pressure, stomachaches, chest pains, muscle aches and get sick more easily. We can also feel anxious, grumpy, sad or even have panic attacks.
We can't avoid stress, but we can handle it better. Here are some ways to feel better:
- Go outside more or take a short walk.
- Think about what you did well each day (not what you didn't do).
- Learn to relax with activities like meditation or yoga.
- Stay positive and healthy.
- Set daily, weekly and monthly goals.
- Understand that you can't control everything.
- Learn to say "No."
- Stay connected to people who make you happy. They can help you stay calm and support you.
- Think about talking to a therapist.
MDwise has lots of resources to help you. We have case managers who can assist you over the phone. They can give you resources and support. To talk to a case manager, call customer service at 1-800-356-1204 and ask to be connected to a case manager. Help is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET or 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
References:
Stress: What It Is, Symptoms, Management & Prevention
What Is Stress Management? | American Heart Association
What Is Stress? Symptoms, Causes, Impact, Treatment, Coping