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2022 GOOD HEALTH
HEALTH FOCUS COURTESY ADVENTHEALTH
Tips for handling stress : work , home and relationships
Unfortunately , stress is a common feeling in everyone ’ s lives . The American Institute of Stress found that 33 % of people report feeling extreme stress , and 77 % say that stress impacts their physical and mental health . Whether your stress stems from work , home , relationships or all of the above , we ’ ve got tips to help you handle stress and start feeling peace in body , mind and spirit .
HANDLING STRESS AT WORK According to The American Institute of Stress , 80 % of people feel stress at work . Certain factors tend to be the source of this stress and frustration . Common workplace stressors include :
• Conflicting demands or unclear performance expectations
• Excessive workloads
• Few opportunities for growth or advancement
• Lack of social support
• Low salaries
• Not having enough control over job-related decisions
• Work that isn ’ t engaging or challenging If you ’ re feeling stressed and overwhelmed at work , here are a few tips on handling and reducing that stress .
STAY ORGANIZED Even if organization isn ’ t your strongest skill , implementing
some structure and order to your workday can help greatly reduce your stress at work . For example , plan your day in the evening before you go to bed , so you aren ’ t rushing to eat breakfast on your commute to work . Or declutter your office or desk to give you more room to be efficient with your work . Taking small steps to be more organized throughout your day will help reduce overwhelming feelings and help you feel more at peace with your day .
BE CLEAR ON REQUIREMENTS The greatest cause of workplace stress is job burnout . Unclear requirements from employers lead to added frustration and greatly contribute to burnout . If you aren ’ t sure what is expected of you , talk with your supervisor and go over the expectations of your role . Also , discuss strategies you can take if you are on the verge of burnout to get the help you need .
TAKE A WALK DURING LUNCH Research has shown that walking promotes the release of brain chemicals called endorphins that stimulate relaxation and improve your mood . Take a 15-minute walk around your office building or at a nearby park and feel that stress melt away during your lunch break . You will see benefits in your mental and emotional health , but it will also benefit you physically as you move your body and stretch your muscles after sitting at a desk all morning .
HANDLING STRESS AT HOME If you leave work feeling overwhelmed and come home to a space that doesn ’ t help you unwind , it can add to the stress from your day . With these tips , you can make your home feel like an oasis again .
CREATE A PERSONAL SPACE Boundaries aren ’ t just important at work or with friends , but also in your home . If you need time to cool down after work before you start cooking dinner , let your partner know that you ’ re going to take a quick bath or sit outside on the porch . Find a place in your home that allows you to clear your mind and relax . Taking a few moments of personal time to declutter your mind and slow your spirit is not selfish and allows you to refuel your tank so you can better care for your family .
INFUSE YOUR HOME WITH CALM Your home ’ s physical surroundings are closely tied to your peace — and can add to your stress . Try decluttering and keeping essential things . A clean home creates space for new memories to be made and a
SEE STRESS , PAGE 14