Being stressed is one of the most ignored health issues, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. We ignore stress because it often feels normal. We’re working so hard, trying to take care of our family and our homes, and still attempting to make time to fit in hobbies (because we’re told we have to do it all, right?!)—and because we’re so busy, learning how to de-stress feels impossible.

Or worse, the idea of de-stressing doesn’t even cross our minds.

The problem with chronic stress, though, is that it can cause mental health issues as well as lead to physical health problems like high blood pressure, heart issues, obesity, and more.

All in all, learning how to better manage your stress, and specifically learning how to de-stress, can help you feel like the best version of yourself again.

Here are three suggestions and options to consider:

Therapy

You can de-stress in many ways, and while many of those ways are easy to implement and/or free, therapy may also be something to consider.

One of the best things about therapy is that you can choose a therapist that suits your needs and lifestyle, as well as whether you meet in-person or pursue online therapy.

Therapy can help you let go of repressed trauma and anxiety, sort through your emotions, identify your triggers, and create a plan for a more peaceful, restful, and centered lifestyle (that you deserve!).

Plus, if you combine therapy with other de-stressing methods, you’ll feel even better and more apt to handle the curveballs life will inevitably throw your way.

& PS: There’s no shame in seeing a therapist!

Exercise More

Exercise is a good thing for our physical health, ensuring our muscles stay strong, we maintain a healthy weight, and our internal organs function properly. However, on top of all these good reasons to move around, exercise has been shown to help our bodies de-stress.

So, there’s all the more reason to get active! 

When you exercise, your body releases feel-good hormones, and these hormones put you in a good mood. Although you might not like the idea of exercising, the fact is, once you get started (and for some time afterwards), you’ll feel great.

On top of that, when you’re focused on your activity, you won’t be thinking about what’s causing you stress (so just the idea of focusing on something else coupled with physical movement can help!).

Minimize Social Media 

There are arguments for and against using your phone or tablet to de-stress, and in some cases, your device(s) can be useful—online therapy, relaxing music, games, or watching calming videos like the ASMR trends, for example. However, when it comes to social media, these pages are more apt to increase stress than reduce it. 

If you’re feeling stressed, scrolling through your social feeds is probably not the best idea. Rather than the mindless scrolling, comparing, and/or getting fired up on different topics, try to refocus your attention on something more positive and uplifting.

Or, switch to something else—empowering podcasts, audiobooks, or simply deactivating your account(s) for a period of time to see how that positively impacts your day-to-day.

Remember: You’re Not Supposed To Be Stressed All The Time

While this list is, of course, not meant to be comprehensive in any way, learning ways to de-stress (whether something as simple as exercise or as extensive as investing in therapy), is important.

Remember that you deserve to live a life that’s manageable—not overwhelming all the time.