Hi lovelies,

Hey, you know what stress feels like, right? In one of our previous articles, we discussed some of the signs of stress, and what you can do to help yourself. Headaches, feelings of irritability, and sleepless nights are just some of the signs, and chances are, you will be able to relate to what we said in the article. Stress can affect us all, and there are a number of factors that can cause it. From troubles at work to problems with money, we can all bear the brunt of one too many stresses in our everyday lives. 

Of course, you don't need to let stress beat you down. As mentioned, we have indicated what you might be able to do to alleviate stress in the previously linked article. Have a read and follow the advice given. Then keep reading for advice on what not to do when stress starts to overwhelm you. 

#1: Don't ignore your stressors
It could be a troublesome boss that regularly causes you to worry. Or it could be a debt that is eating away at both your finances and your frazzled mind. It might even be a family member who is causing you to have sleepless nights. Stressors can be wide and many and it's important to get a handle on them. You should do this for two reasons. Firstly, they might never go away if you don't do something about them. And secondly, your mental health will start to deteriorate if they are always on your mind. Of course, there might sometimes be stressors that are out of your control. However, you can still reduce the effect they have on you, perhaps by following this advice on managing your stress. 

#2: Don't fall into an unhealthy lifestyle
Some people fall into bad habits as a means to counter their stressful thoughts. They drink or do drugs to numb the pain they are feeling, or they comfort eat as a means to settle their fractured nerves. Some people also spend longer in bed, unwilling to face the stresses of the day. And others increase screen time to distract themselves from the negative thoughts that are circulating through their minds. Such habits might provide solace in the short-term but they aren't long-term solutions. Not only are they ineffective as stress-relievers but they are guaranteed to cause more stress too. 

So, don't fall into an unhealthy lifestyle yourself. Engage in healthy stress-relieving behaviors, such as exercise and spending time with friends. But if you have already fallen prey to unhealthy habits, speak to a doctor or research the nearest American Addiction Centers location to find professional support.

#3: Don't withdraw from your loved ones
Some people battle with their stresses alone and ignore the support, love, and companionship that other people could offer them. But this doesn't help at all. When stressed, it is important to share stressors with others, as this is healthier than keeping them cooped up inside. The very act of talking to somebody about them can be a release, and it's a bonus when the other person can provide active support, as well as just a listening ear. So, don't isolate yourself or struggle tirelessly to cope alone. When you're overly stressed, turn to the people who love and care for you, for help and a healthy distraction.

You can't escape stress but you can deal with it responsibly. So, consider what we have said today, and handle your stress the right way instead of falling into bad (and potentially stress-boosting) practices. 

Take care and thanks for reading.