PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – April is National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the body’s response to perceived threats or challenges.
Adam Borland, a clinical psychologist, said many people lack self-awareness or healthy coping mechanisms to manage it.
Borland, of Cleveland Clinic, said some use alcohol, drugs, or other substances instead of choosing to exercise or rest.
“I often encourage my patients to engage in meditation or some sort of deep breathing exercise,” Borland said.
Here are other coping skills to deal with stress:
- Make self-care part of your routine by being aware of how you feel and what you need and taking action.
- Allocate time to engaging in the activities that you enjoy.
- Create a support system and stay connected.
- Practice self-compassion through kind and encouraging self-talk.
- Focus on what you can change and not on what is out of your control.
For more information about managing stress, visit this U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page or contact a mental health specialist.