Stress and anxiety are threats to your mental health if they are not managed. Feeling stressed or anxious every so often is not a bad thing. However, if it starts taking control of your life, you need to seek help and make some changes.
Changes To Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Here is a look at some of the changes that can be beneficial in dealing with stress or anxiety.
Increase The Amount of Physical Activity You Get
There is no shortage of verified proof that points to exercise as a great way to calm the mind and body. But what do you do if physical activity is not already part of your life? That’s easy. Just start slow with activities that are gentle on your body. Go for a walk around the block. Or ride a bike to a nearby park. Find something you enjoy doing that gets you active.
Introduce A Balanced Diet To Your Meal Plan
What you eat has a tremendous impact on your health, including your mental health. Plus, if you are stressed out regularly, it may result in overeating or eating unhealthy foods. A well-balanced diet feeds your body the right nutrients it needs to function properly and helps you combat both stress and anxiety.
Reduce Time Spent In Front of A Screen
Stress levels can be impacted by too much time with your smartphone, tablet or computer. Screen time has already been linked to sleep disorders and trouble sleeping is a sign of stress and anxiety. Although there is a need in our daily lives for these devices, start limiting how long you use them.
Introduce Self-Care Habits
One way to take care of your mental health is to take care of yourself. All you need to do is find some time to treat yourself to something just for you. It could be taking yourself out for lunch, getting a massage, making a healthy meal, relaxing in the sunshine, or taking a break for a cup of tea on a busy day. Whatever you choose to do for yourself, practicing self-care is good for your well-being.
Start Reducing How Much Caffeine You Consume
Probably one of the reasons why energy drinks are so popular is they contain high concentrations of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system. Even if you don’t drink energy drinks, you are getting caffeine into your body if you drink coffee or tea, or eat chocolate. However, there are decaffeinated options that can reduce your intake and therefore reduce the potential of developing stress or anxiety.
Choose To Spend Quality Time With Those You Love
Family and friends may stress you out on occasion, but deep down, they are also remedies to combat stress and anxiety. If you have supportive family members or support within your social network, why not spend more time around those people who make you feel good? Start accepting invitations if you don’t already and seek these people for social activities. It will be very good for you and your mental health.
Start A Hobby or Fun Activity
Maybe you have a hidden talent that is bursting to get out. Or maybe there is a sport or activity you have wanted to try but had no reason to until now. Well, what are you waiting for? If you find a hobby or sport you enjoy, not only will it help you combat stress and anxiety, but it may be something you will keep doing for a long time in your life. It may become that parachute you need when stress comes calling. Regardless, finding something you can do that is fun, is good for your overall health.
Are You Having Trouble Dealing With Stress and Anxiety?
Contact Scarborough Physio and Health today. They are your local clinical psychologist centre in Scarborough. Learn ways to combat stress and anxiety and improve your mental health. Call Scarborough Physio and Health today and start feeling better right away.
Conclusion
It is okay to feel a little stress or have anxious feelings as these often motivate us to do something. But when stress and anxiety are chronic conditions in your life, you need to make some serious changes. For assistance, you should consult a professional psychologist for help. You may find quick relief just from making small changes in your life. But you won’t know unless you take the first step to getting better.