Coping with Stress

At Support Group on Thursday Dr. Andelin presented some very useful tips on coping with stress. I figured I would share them for those of you who were unable to make it!



1- Find out what stresses you if you aren't always aware

2-Realize you have a choice in how you react to stress

3-Use effective time management--plan and prioritize your work

4-Talk it out-- ventilate-- find a sounding board

5- Avoid too much, too fast- spread out changes where possible

6- Take action- DO something

7- Escape for a while- take a break- take a vacation

8- If you need to feel sorry for yourself, make it short term

9- Set boundaries and learn how to say no

10- Avoid the "Superman" or "Wonderwoman" urge

11- Accept (acknowledge) what you cannot change

12- Delegate tasks or ask for help when appropriate

13- If you are wrong or make a mistake, admit it. No one is perfect.

14- Smile at people- at least try to look pleasant

15- Learn to relax

16- Find productive ways to get rid of your anger

17- Do something for someone else

18- Think positive- be optimistic

19- Develop a sense of humor- learn to laugh at yourself

20- Put things in perspective. "Will it really matter a year from now?"

21- Learn to have fun

22- Develop a support system- family, friends, coworkers

23- Follow the rules of good nutrition, adequate sleep, exercise

24- Focus on what you can do, not on what you can't do

25- If you need help, get an expert



Hope this helps ease a bit of stress :)