Healthy Ways to Manage Stress – Kaiser Permanente

Stress is an inevitable part of life, affecting everyone from busy professionals to stay-at-home parents. Even life’s successes – getting a new place, having a child, landing that promotion – can be overwhelming. Protect your mental and physical health by learning healthy ways to cope, including asking for help when you need it.
Recognize Stress Symptoms Early
Dr. Saba Notghi, chief of psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente in Panorama City, emphasizes the importance of early recognition of stress symptoms. “Stress can manifest physically and mentally, especially in high-stress environments. Recognizing these signs early is essential to prevent them from escalating into more severe issues like anxiety attacks,” says Dr. Notghi.
Take a Moment
When you feel overwhelmed, one effective technique is to take a moment to breathe deeply. Dr. Notghi recommends box breathing: Breathe in for 5 seconds, hold for 5, and exhale for 5. “This can reset tension and improve focus,” says Dr. Notghi.
Walk Away from Stress
Being active is another excellent way to manage stress. Activities like walking, yoga, or participating in a pick-up game can relax your muscles and reduce stress levels. Exercise also promotes better sleep, enhancing your resilience throughout the day.
Connect with Others
Frequently feeling stressed can damage your physical and mental health. To live your best life, make time to connect with loved ones, talk about how you feel, and reach out for support when needed.
Overcoming Stigma and Seeking Help
Dr. Notghi highlights the importance of overcoming the stigma associated with seeking help for stress. “Using alcohol and substances as coping mechanisms for stress is not advisable. Instead, developing healthier coping skills is crucial for long-term well-being,” he advises.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can manage stress more effectively and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. For more tips on managing stress, visit kp.org/stressmanagement.