National Stress Management Month is observed every April to raise awareness about the causes and remedies for the modern stress epidemic we’re experiencing. It is a time for open conversations on the impact of stress and managing it as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. The observance encourages individuals and communities to address stress, seek support, and learn effective coping strategies. Activities and resources are available to help manage stress, including yoga, exercise, time outdoors, music, meditation, and social connections.
While we may experience stress and anxiety differently, there are proven strategies for coping with the type of stress you may be feeling. We suggest you use the Five Cs for healthy coping strategies for stress:
1. Connected – Stay connected. Connecting with family and friends is one of our most basic ways of coping with stress, anxiety and sadness.
2. Control – Focus on what you can control. This strategy works because it turns our attention away from uncertainty.
3. Calm – Engage in activities that make you feel calm. These types of activities calm our nerves and body, which is carrying the effects of
uncertainty.
4. Cut down on the news. While it’s important that we stay informed, many of us are binging on the news, which can increase our worry without helping us figure out what to do.
5. Caring – Give and receive kindness. Being caring and kind to others makes a difference. Acts of kindness help us feel better about ourselves and decrease our anxiety and sadness. And when we do something kind for someone there is a ripple effect — that person is more likely to show help to others.
Source: UCLA Stand Program (Screening and Treatment for Anxiety and Depression)