Lately, I have been feeling a huge amount of stress and anxiety. Some of it is school related, but I have always tended to become easily overwhelmed. I keep how I'm feeling internalized, but within the past year I have been able to channel my stress and anxiety to healthy outlets. It is very important to take care of yourself and value yourself above anything else. I believe that a lot of the people, especially young adults, who deal with chronic stress have a tough time managing it. The way I have been coping with these trying times is something I think is valuable to share!
1. Get yourself up and outside.
Feeling overwhelmed can translate into not wanting to do much. One of my close friends started urging me to go for walks. It is such a little thing, but it seriously helps so much! You can go with a friend or by yourself if you feel more comfortable that way. Just getting out and getting some air can turn your day around completely! At first, I thought just one walk wasn't going to help much, but afterwards I felt extremely relaxed! Being able to take that time away from what normally makes you stressed and anxious makes all of the difference.
2. Working out.
Exercise and getting out for a walk can be one in the same, but I have found positive results from doing both separately from each other. Getting your endorphins going and working up a sweat is a great way to release tension. At first, getting into the work out routine can be difficult, but it begins to be one of the things you look forward to in your day. Not only does it do this, but you also begin to feel great about yourself! It is a very beneficial and affirmative outlet, and definitely is better than unhealthy things people can turn to when times get tough.
3. Vocalize what you're feeling!
I used to internalize most of my feelings. I was horrible about telling people when I was sad, mad, stressed, anxious, etc. And when I did, I communicated so horribly that it translated wrong almost every single time. My advice to anyone hiding their true feelings is: DON'T! It is so unhealthy to keep everything to yourself and not feel as if there is anyone you can vent to. I learned that, once I confided in people who I felt would help me through whatever was causing me uneasiness, I felt instantly relieved. Instead of bottling your feelings, which causes a significant amount of more stress, find trustworthy people who can help you! There is nothing wrong with going through hard times, believe me everyone goes through them.
What I have found to be beneficial in decreasing my stress and anxiety may not work for others. Everyone is different, therefore, everyone may have different coping strategies. This is just what has worked for me, and I have had nothing but positive results. The only one point that I would say applies to everyone is to vocalize what you are feeling! Overall, I think whatever stress or anxiety that you are taking on, it needs to be addressed. Nothing bad can come from finding what coping skills best suit you. Just take care of yourself. I mentioned it in my article, "4 Ways I Take Care of Myself in College," that it is crucial to value your mental health! It is very important, and I hope these outlets I have found can hopefully benefit someone else!
