What is it?

Stress is a normal psychological and physical reaction to the demands of life. A small amount of stress can be good, motivating you to perform well. But multiple challenges daily can push you beyond your ability to cope. 

Your brain comes hard-wired with an alarm system for your protection. When your brain perceives a threat, it signals your body to release a burst of hormones that increase your heart rate and raise your blood pressure. This "fight-or-flight" response fuels you to deal with the threat. 

Once the threat is gone, your body is meant to return to a normal, relaxed state. Unfortunately, the nonstop complications of modern life mean that some people's alarm systems rarely shut off.  

Stress management gives you a range of tools to reset your alarm system. It can help your mind and body adapt (resilience). Without it, your body might always be on high alert. Over time, chronic stress can lead to serious health problems. (MayoClinic) 

Why does it matter?

Effective stress management helps you break the hold stress has on your life to be happier, healthier, and more productive. The ultimate goal is a balanced life, with time for work, relationships, relaxation, and fun—and the resilience to hold up under pressure and meet challenges head-on. But stress management is not one-size-fits-all. That's why it's essential to experiment and find out what works best for you. (Help Guide) 

• 5 Reasons Why You Need To Manage Your Stress (Aspen Counseling Center) 
• Why It's Important to Master Stress (University of Minnesota) 
• Why is Time and Stress Management so Important? (Kentucky Counseling Center) 

Practice strategies that work

1. Practice the 4 A's (Avoid, Alter, Adapt & Accept) Mayo Clinic
2. Get Moving
3. Connect to others
4. Make time for fun and relaxation
5. Manage your time better
6. Maintain balance with a healthy lifestyle
7. Learn to relieve stress in the moment