Stress Management

Five Things You Should Know About Stress

Source: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

1. Stress affects everyone. Examples of stress include

• Routine stress
• Stress brought about by sudden negative change
• Traumatic stress

2. Not all stress is bad.

• In dangerous situations, stress prepares the body for fight or flight.
• In non-life threatening situations, stress can be a motivator.

3. Long-term stress can harm your health.

• Chronic stress can disturb bodily systems.
• Continued bodily strain from stress can contribute to health problems:
  • heart disease
  • high blood pressure
  • diabetes
  • depression
  • anxiety

4. There are ways to manage stress and reduce health risks.

• Be observant.
• Talk to your health care provider or a health professional.
• Get regular exercise.
• Try a relaxing activity.
• Set goals and priorities.
• Stay connected.
• Consider a clinical trial.
  • Join a Study
  • ClinicalTrials.gov (keyword: stress)

5. If you're overwhelmed by stress, ask for help from a health professional.

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
  • 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Lifeline chat
• Crisis Text Line
  • Text "HELLO" to 741741
• Veterans Crisis Line
  • Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1
  • Text to 838255
• Disaster Distress Helpline
  • Call 1-800-985-5990
  • Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746