Dealing with Long-Term Stress

By Cindy Williams, RN

Director, Health Ministries

How does one deal with stress, especially long-term stress? Have you personally found ways to cope? I’ve pulled together five general strategies to give you some ideas.

1. Make time for God

• Pray
• Meditate on God’s Word
• Ask Him to direct and guide your life

2.  Take care of your health

• Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise at least five days a week.
• Eat food that provides high quality nutrients – vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes
• Get 7 – 9 hours of sleep every night

3. Maintain a healthy social life balanced with times of quiet and solitude

• Engage in meaningful relationships
• Give yourself time to be alone with your own thoughts

4. Engage in relaxing activities

• Read
• Listen to music
• Develop a hobby

5. Set priorities and goals

• Take the time needed to decide on your personal goals for your life and for each day
• Focus on the tasks and responsibilities that will bring you closer to meeting your goals
• Say “no” to new responsibilities if they are likely to put you into overload or don’t fit with your personal goals

Which of these strategies will work for you? We are unique individuals and what works for me may not work well for you. Walking outdoors in the fresh air is something that really helps me when I feel overwhelmed by life and stressed. I encourage you to choose something and get started today. 

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201507/7-ways-mentally-strong-people-deal-stress

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/stress/index.shtml

This article is part of a continuing series of health during these COVID times. For other articles, please see www.uccsda.org/healthministries.

Photo by Nik Shuliahin on Unsplash