Did you know that emotional well-being has potential to affect your overall health? In fact, mental and emotional stress can translate into adverse physical reactions, a weakened immune system, and overall poor health outcomes.
Between work, family obligations, and a constantly changing world around us – people in the U.S. are stressed. In fact, workers in the U.S. are among the most stressed in the world.1 Furthermore, stress leads to unhealthy habits like overeating, physical inactivity, smoking and risk factors for heart disease and stroke like high blood pressure, and depression or anxiety. Therefore, it’s vital for you recognize emotional wellness month to learn how to manage your stress and take the initiative to improve your mental well-being.
Manage stress and improve your mental well-being
Often stress adds to the negative emotions that an individual might experience. However, it is important to understand that stress happens. When it does, only you can decide how to handle it. What actions will you take? Are you going to dwell in those I can’t moments or are you going to take control and tell yourself, “I got this!”? We often forget that taking time for yourself is important, especially because stress correlates to the risk of heart disease and stroke. Consequently, managing constant stress can in fact reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Many adults feel as if lowering stress is a full-time commitment but forget that they can take back time one moment at a time. So, remember that you don’t have to stress about stress. While it happens to the best of us, the AHA suggests a few simple things you can do for yourself:
Take a simple moment to breathe deep- Take your dog on a short walk
- Get your friends together for lunch
- Aim to think more positively
- Schedule a power nap to recharge
- Add fruits or veggies to your meals
Managing stress means managing your health, so reclaim control of your schedule and build in time to invest in a healthier “you.”
For additional tips, click here for more ways you can reduce your stress!
