When you are living with mental illness, managing stress can be a major challenge. From worrying about your condition to managing changes in medication, there are so many factors that can interfere with feeling balanced and relaxed. It’s important to find ways to alleviate these pressures when they arise so you don’t have an additional burden on your day-to-day activities. Here we’ll discuss five simple strategies for managing stress – from positive self-talk to changing how you think about things – so you can stay calm and composed no matter what comes your way.
1. Practice positive self-talk.
One simple but powerful way to reduce stress is to practice positive self-talk. This means replacing negative or self-defeating thoughts with more supportive and empowering ones. For example, instead of saying “I can’t do this,” try saying “I can do this, and even if I don’t succeed right away, I will learn and grow from the experience.
2. Take Breaks and Prioritize Self-Care
It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of daily life and neglect our own needs. But it’s important to make time for self-care and relaxation. This can mean taking regular breaks throughout the day to do something you enjoy, setting aside time for physical activity, or engaging in a relaxing activity like meditation or deep breathing.
3. Practice Gratitude
Focusing on what we are grateful for can help shift our perspective and reduce stress. Make a daily habit of writing down three things you are grateful for, no matter how small. This can help you feel more positive and grateful overall.
4. Learn to Say No
It’s important to set boundaries and protect our time and energy. Don’t be afraid to say no to requests or invitations that don’t align with your priorities or well-being.
5. Challenge Negative Thinking Patterns
Sometimes our stress is caused by the way we think about things. By learning to challenge negative thinking patterns, we can reduce stress and improve our mental health. For example, if you find yourself thinking “I always mess things up,” try reframing this thought as “I have made mistakes in the past, but I have also learned from them and can improve in the future.”
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can better manage stress and improve your mental health. Remember to be patient with yourself and seek support when needed.
