A person’s body can react to stress in strong ways. People have different signs of stress, but they may include:

• An increase or decrease in energy and activity levels
• An increase in frustration, with outbursts of anger and frequent arguing
• Having trouble relaxing or sleeping
• Not wanting to eat or eating too much
• Worrying much more than usual
• Wanting to be alone most of the time
• Not able to feel pleasure or have fun
• Feeling depressed, anxious, or fearful
• An increase in alcohol use or use of illegal drugs

Fight Stress with Healthy Habits

1. Slow down

   Plan ahead and allow enough time to get the most important things done without having to rush.

2. Snooze more

   Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. To fight insomnia, add mindfulness and activity.

3. Let worry go

   The world won’t end if a few things fall off of your plate.  Give yourself a break and just breathe.

4. Laugh it up

   Laughter makes us feel good.  Don’t be afraid to laugh out loud, even when you’re alone.

5. Get connected

   A daily dose of friendship in great medicine.  Make time to call friends or family so you can catch up.

6. Get organized

   Use “to do” lists to help you focus on your most important tasks and take big projects one step at a time.

7. Practice giving back

   Volunteer your time or spend time helping out a friend.  Helping others helps you.

8. Be active every day

   Exercise can relieve mental and physical tension.  Find something you think is fun and stick with it.