Managing stress during an unprecedented time

Lately, we have been bombarded with a great deal of information regarding our political, social, and economic future. It’s hardly impossible to stroll on social media or turn on your television without hearing or reading something related to the economy or politics. Regardless of who you voted for in the past election, I am sure all this chatter has brought about a great deal of stress. 

Here are some strategies for managing stress.   

• Acknowledgment of Uncontrollable Factors: Recognizing that many macro-level issues are beyond individual control is crucial. It prevents futile attempts to control the uncontrollable, which only increases stress. 

• Focus on Agency: Try shifting your focus to how you respond to these external forces in a way that empowers you.  You may ask yourself, how might I respond to this information in way that is empowering and supportive to my mental health?

• Stress Identification and Minimization: Pinpointing specific stressors to allow for targeted solutions. For example, economic anxiety can be addressed by budgeting, saving, or seeking financial advice.    

• Develop Coping Strategies: It’s important to identify healthy coping strategies that can ease your stress. This is vital, as stress left unchecked can lead to serious health problems.    

• Be Action-Oriented: Set goals and actionable steps, this will provide you with a sense of control and purpose. It will also combat feelings of helplessness.  

•  Self-reflection: Reflecting on past coping mechanisms used during stressful times and current stressors is a great way to take inventory of what works and does not work. 

  
  

• Practice Mindfulness and Presence: Practices mindfulness. Being present in the moment can help reduce anxiety about future uncertainties. Even simple practices like mindful breathing or mindful walking can be beneficial.    

• Limit Information Overload: Try setting boundaries on news and social media consumption. Constant exposure to negative information can amplify stress. 

• Connect with Others:Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional comfort and a sense of belonging.    

• Practice Gratitude: Develop a gratitude practice. Focusing on what we are grateful for can shift our perspective and reduce negativity. Try starting or ending your self by writing three things that you are grateful for.

• Prioritize Sleep and Physical Health: Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise are essential for stress management.    

• Seek Professional Help: While self-help strategies are valuable, it's important to acknowledge when professional help is needed. Be willing to seek therapy or counseling if stress becomes overwhelming.