Stress affects 7% of young adults according to the Mental Health Foundation, with 46% turning to food to deal with it. Remember that everyone feels overwhelmed at times and it is okay to step back. Whether it is school work, uni courses, your love life- so many things can stress us out. Here are 5 things to help you cope and decompress.
Use your friends
Instead of ranting at your friend over texts, pick up the phone. You’ll be able to vent a lot easier without the pressure of typing your feelings out. Studies have shown that just hearing a friend’s voice can instantly calm you down. People want to help you and family and friends should be your first port of call.
Cook
I have found that baking is a great stress reliever. In fact, one in three Britons use baking to help them de-stress after a busy day at work. Not only is it a pleasurable past time but it eases stress levels. Psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos says: “Following a recipe can be very therapeutic. You are focusing on the present instead of worrying about previous events.”
Meditate
Making time in your day to meditate if you are finding yourself frequently needing to chill is really important. There are loads of apps to help you practice mediation which I use and find helpful especially if you struggle with sleeping. Headspace and Calm for instance. Being able to take your mind from being overactive to silent is an incredibly difficult task and it will take time for meditation to take effect but it is definitely worth it.
Sweat it out
As much as this seems to be an answer to a lot of my problems. Going and working out is a great way to relieve stress from your life. If you have had a particularly stressful or difficult day take yourself to the gym or go to a class. I know how difficult it can be to go out and get yourself there but when you are, you will feel great.
Take a break
Sometimes you need to just take a break from it all. Give yourself time to indulge in taking a break but leave your phone elsewhere. Use your break wisely. Sit and read a book, or have a cup of tea, just give yourself a brain break, social media will still be there when you get back.
I hope that these tips help you manage your stress and anxiety. Remember to keep yourself happy and healthy and if your stress is becoming unmanageable, seek help from your GP.
To Read Next:
6 toxic friends you should be wary of