Top Tips for Dealing with Stress

Stress is a major contributing factor to many health issues plaguing Americans, especially chronic stressors, which negatively impact the immune system, ultimately manifesting as an illness. Those in recovery are urged to take note of their stress levels precisely because they’re working towards better overall physical and mental health, but it’s not always easy. Not only can unmanaged stress lead to potential relapse, but it can make the recovery journey more complicated. There are some simple steps for mitigating stress-related problems and building resilience to withstand its effects in the future. 

• Grounding techniques: Living in a constant state of anxiety can make even the most minor stressors feel much more daunting. While stress-induced anxiety and depression can’t always be solved easily with self-work, grounding techniques can help ease high-pressure situations that could have a lasting impact. Several methods can help someone snap out of their panicked state by focusing on their immediate surroundings, allowing the brain to feel more present.

• Physical activity: It may seem like experts claim that exercise can fix nearly everything, but when it comes to stress, it’s undeniable that just 20 to 30 minutes of brisk movement can release a ton of pent-up tension from the body and mind. When exercise is done regularly, it has a collective effect that will lower stress levels overall and help the brain build more resiliency when dealing with difficult situations by stimulating the production of endorphins which foster relaxation.

• Breathing exercises: When under immense pressure, the last thing anyone wants to hear is someone telling them to “calm down and breathe,” but it’s actually decent advice! Deep breathing can help ease the strain that stress can put on the heart and cardiovascular system by introducing more oxygen into the bloodstream, reducing stress hormones, and promoting better focus and emotional regulation.

• Better sleep: Many people aren’t aware of how much their lack of sleep inhibits their ability to deal with everyday stressors. Of course, chronic stress can cause insomnia, causing a cycle of restless nights and stressful days. Improving sleep hygiene to achieve deep, restorative sleep can significantly reduce overbearing feelings of constant anxiety and worry while reducing the impact on the body’s immune system.

• Eliminating triggers: There are things in life that will always be stressful yet unavoidable, but there are also things, places, and people that are not. Resolving reoccurring or persistent situations that trigger stress may be difficult or seem like an impossible task, but it’s doable, especially when asking for help. The relief felt once these issues are resolved can make stress seemingly melt away overnight.

• Talking it out: Sometimes, it’s easier to gain perspective or come up with solutions when things are talked about out loud. That’s why substance use counseling is so vital and effective during addiction treatment. Even when there is no exact solution to a problem, speaking about thoughts and emotions can release stress, even if temporary.

Middlesex Recovery provides comprehensive care for those struggling with substance use disorder using evidence-based treatment and FDA-approved medications. All enrolled patients have access to specialized medical providers and substance use counselors who understand the disease of addiction and work hard to increase their chances of achieving long-lasting recovery. To learn more, call or message a nearby Middlesex Recovery location today.