What can we do to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of stress

There are three main categories of activities we can do to "deal" with stress, and reduce our risk of the experiencing the harm that comes from long-term chronic stress

1.Reduce source of stress – how can we have less stress introduced in our life?

2.Manage stress – What can we do long term to decrease the impacts of stress

3.Relieve stress – What can we do when feeling the immediate effects of stress

Over the next three posts, I will go into each category and offer some ways that we can make minimal change, to impact our health, both mentally and physically.

Is there anything that may be causing acute or chronic stress that you can eliminate or reduce from your life, either right away or over time?

Examples:

changing living arrangement

career change

reducing contact or exposure to stressful relationships

(setting boundaries- there will be much more info coming on this topic in the next few weeks)

Cut back or quit consuming alcohol

Let go of unrealistic standards imposed by society, family and self.

Know your values, limits and triggers

If you are struggling with stress, the first thing I suggest to do, is to list the top 3 stressors in your life right now, and determine if any can be reduced or eliminated.

If the answer is yes, or maybe, but you don't know where to start, perhaps connecting with a psychotherapist would be a good place to start.

I would love to help you with this, check my online booking link for availability

Next time I will share some ideas for managing the stress we cannot eliminate or reduce