STRESS REDUCTION

Favorites:

• Take a 10 to 30 minute brisk walk (preferably outdoors)
• Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe

Stress is the physical, emotional and mental response to change. The effects of this response may be positive, empowering us to do well on an exam, run faster in our track meet, deal with a family crisis effectively or just enjoy the moment more fully. But--chronic unresolved stress may affect both mind and body leaving us depressed, lethargic, bored, and physically less healthy-and our lives less happy than we desire.

Knowing what causes stress is important:

• Major changes in our lifestyle (college, new roommate, new job, etc.)
• Many small problems appearing at once
• Situations, thoughts or beliefs that are negative and seem unchangeable

We may have unreasonable expectations of ourselves or of others. Sometimes we procrastinate because things seem too big, too hard, too boring. A problem may just seem too big to fix. If we learn to handle everyday stress in a timely manner, we will automatically cope better with crises.

Steps to reducing our stress or managing it more effectively include:

1. Identify the cause(s) and decide to take action (this requires time and effort on your part)
2. Look at options for change (these may include changing the situation or changing your thoughts or attitudes) and avoid or modify solutions that have not worked in the past
3. Learn new stress management techniques (problem solving, time management, relaxation techniques) and accept that nothing happens overnight
4. Seek assistance through reading and/or talking with friends, parents, a pastor or counselor (sometimes an objective viewpoint can help put things in perspective)
5. Be assertive-express your needs and wants clearly while being respectful of others' rights to do the same

10 Ways to Reduce Daily Stress:

1. Go to bed on time
2. Say "no" to projects or requests that don't fit your time schedule
3. Get organized (especially if #2 doesn't work with your professor)
4. Eat right
5. Laugh
6. Make friends with happy, non-stressed people
7. Get up on time
8. Exercise
9. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can)
10. Everyday, find time to be alone

Effective stress management can help our lives be healthier and happier and easier!! Questions about stress management and other health concerns can be addressed to personnel at the Student Health Center at (775) 784-6598.

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