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Relieve Your Stress and Protect Your Mental Health
The holiday season is here, which can put additional pressure on you if you are preparing to host a gathering or are planning to see family. You might want everything to be perfect, and it's very easy to get angry if something goes wrong. Know there are ways to better manage your anger during the holiday season - keep reading to learn more.
Count to 10 Before Reacting
We've all been there before. Something happens that we don't like, and before we know it, we react emotionally instead of responding rationally. In the heat of the moment, it can be challenging to think clearly and make the best decision. That's why it's important to count to 10 before reacting.
By taking a moment to breathe and think about your words, you can avoid saying something you'll later regret. Not only that, but you're also more likely to come up with a constructive solution to the problem at hand. So next time you're angry or upset, remember to count to 10 before reacting. It could make all the difference in the world.
Take a Deep Breath and Relax
Stress can take a major toll on our health. Feeling anxious or on edge can lead to headaches, trouble sleeping, and even heart disease. That's why finding ways to relax and de-stress is so important. One of the most effective methods is deep breathing. When we take slow, deep breaths, it signals to our brain that we're safe and everything is okay. This helps to reduce the level of stress hormones in our body and lowers our heart rate. Deep breathing also increases the oxygen supply to our cells, which can help improve our overall energy levels. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to focus on your breath and let the tension melt away.
Remove Yourself From the Situation If Possible
Remove yourself from a situation if possible. This gives you time to calm down and think about what you want to say or do. It also prevents the problem from escalating into something more serious. If you can't remove yourself, try to stay calm and avoid getting angry. Responding calmly and rationally will help diffuse the situation. Remember, it's always better to assess the situation before taking further action.
Distract Yourself With Something Else
Many people try to relieve their stress by numbing themselves with unhealthy activities, like drinking or binge-watching television. But research shows that these coping mechanisms are only temporary and can actually make your stress worse in the long run. A better approach is to find a healthy distraction that can help take your mind off of whatever is causing you stress. Taking a brisk walk, reading a book, or listening to soothing music are all proven ways to reduce stress. And while it may not be possible to eliminate all sources of stress from your life, finding healthy distractions can help you manage your stress more sustainably.
Talk to Someone About What's Going On
Feeling upset or overwhelmed by significant life changes or challenges is normal. Sometimes, it can help to talk to someone about what's happening. Talking to someone who understands and supports you can make a big difference. Friends and family members can be a great source of support, but sometimes it can be helpful to talk to a professional counselor or therapist.
Counselors and therapists can provide impartial support and guidance as you work through difficult times. If you need to figure out who to talk to, many hotlines and online resources can help you find the right person. Don't suffer in silence- talking to someone about what's going on can make a world of difference.
If you or someone you love is having difficulty managing their anger, there are people who can help. Grace Land Recovery offers services to assist with anger management. Visit our website or give us a call at (901) 519-2655to get started.
