3 Ways to Ease Stress

The stresses of everyday life can turn you into a grump, but negative emotions can actually affect your health.

Buying birthday gifts, hosting guests, cooking feasts, attending work parties, and being bombarded by friends can put you in a sour mood. A pessimistic outlook, however, can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and other negative health effects that can build up over time.

Whether you’re stressed or saddled with a serious case of the blues, counteract negative feelings and improve your mood with these tips:

• Don’t be afraid to say no. While it may seem counterintuitive, saying no to certain events or requests can help you keep a positive outlook as you handle only the tasks you can do comfortably. Skipping a party or making one less dish for a family gathering may be better than overloading yourself and developing a bad attitude in the process.
• Rest, relax, and repeat. When you are overwhelmed, take a break. Try meditating, conscious breathing, or simply spending 15 minutes in a quiet room to reset before returning to the task at hand. Getting enough sleep every night—seven to nine hours is recommended—can also improve your mental and physical health as well as help you better face the stresses of the day.
• Try a little therapy. Therapy can mean different things for different people. Some define therapy as time spent with friends and family, while others find nothing more soothing than a solitary jog or workout. Find a healthy activity that lifts your spirits, and don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional if you can’t shake feelings of depression or anxiety. Psychotherapy, medication, and other treatment options can help you turn a corner and embrace positivity year-round.

Learn more about services, referrals, and assessments available at Carson Tahoe Behavioral Health Services.