Stress Management
Definition
Techniques used to help cope with or lessen physical and emotional effects of everyday life pressures
What is it?
Stress management is the use of a wide range of approaches to help you better deal with stress and adversity. While there are a number of commonly used techniques for improving stress management, some tactics may be unique to different individuals in the ways they can positively impact their stress levels.
Why is it important?
Stress management is a critical skill to have, especially for anyone working in a particularly stressful environment. Symptoms of stress effect both the body and mood and can create conflict, anxiety, a lack of motivation, and irritability. All of these symptoms of stress impact both the individual as well as co-workers and patients, so managing stress symptoms is important, and should be practiced by all medical personnel.
Suggestions for Improvement
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Practice Deep Breathing
In moments of intense stress, taking a few, long, deep breaths can reduce elevated heart rate, return the physical body back to normal, and calm the mind. This practice can help keep stress from impairing decision making or causing conflict between co-workers or with patients.
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Increase Physical Activity
Because tension can be held in the body, physical activity can help reduce the physical symptoms of stress and promote positive mood. Incorporating even small amounts of exercise into your daily routine can reduce stress and increase physical health.
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Seek Counseling
Some stress can actually be too much for a person to handle alone. Seeking professional help to talk through particular stressors in your life or to strategize the most effective forms of stress management for you as an individual may be the best course of action.
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