Stress can impact your sleep, overall health, ability to work effectively, and relationships with family and friends. International Stress Awareness week is a good reminder to focus on managing stress.
Not all stress is inherently negative, but long-term stress can lead to health issues. Preventing and managing stress can help lower your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, and other conditions.
Preventing Stress
Stress is often caused by change, such as a car accident that causes significant injuries. But it can also be caused by positive changes, such as getting a promotion at work. It can be difficult to adjust to changes, particularly when they impact your daily routine. When you know a change is on the horizon, start planning to help make it easier for yourself and your loved ones to adjust. For example, making the time to focus on hobbies or activities you enjoy during a busy time can help you relax and ease transitions.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sometimes the hardest part is deciding where to start. Making a list of your tasks can help you prioritize what needs to be done and when. You could also try time blocking to make sure that you can really focus on an important project or priority during specific times throughout the week. Working backwards from major deadlines can make it easier to identify what needs to be done. If possible, consider removing or outsourcing some tasks to lighten your load. If you’ve been injured, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you decide on the next steps.
Is there a stressful event coming up? Think about what you can do to prepare for the situation now. That might mean taking an online class, finding a support group, or creating systems to help you cope. For example, if you’re having surgery and concerned about making meals, perhaps your friends could organize a meal train.
Managing Stress
Finding ways to manage stress can improve your sleep, mood, relationships, and overall health. Discovering healthy ways to help you cope with stress can vastly improve your outlook. Here are a few stress management strategies to try.
Turn off the news and put your phone away! It’s good to stay informed, but if constantly consuming media about a traumatic event can make it difficult to stop thinking about it. Try limiting your news consumption to a couple of times a day and take regular breaks to disconnect from screens.
Take care of your body. Eat well, get regular exercise, and take a break if you’re feeling stressed. Focus on getting plenty of sleep and avoid excessive use of alcohol, tobacco, and other substances. Make time to relax.
Share your feelings. Discussing your feelings and concerns with people you trust can help you manage your situation. A parent, friend, counselor, doctor, or pastor can be a sounding board and help you process your feelings.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
