These are stressful times, so it's perfectly acceptable for you to feel burnt out and in need of some serious relaxation. That's easier said than done for many people, however, as effective relaxation techniques are often difficult to come by. Many people indulge in unhealthy habits in order to relax, such as drinking or the consumption of recreational drugs, but in truth these will actually exacerbate your problems and make things worse for those around you.

Here are some reliable, safe, and medically-approved ways to relax and reduce stress. Remember that you're not in this alone, and that relaxing with others can help you achieve the best results.

Pets are proven to help you relax

Did you know that pet owners are generally healthier than those who live without pets? Many people are familiar with therapy dogs and other service animals that help reduce stress at work. Others may know a veteran who has a service animal that helps them deal with post-traumatic stress disorder. What few people understand is that these benefits can also be garnered by everyday people who own simple housepets like cats and dogs, which are scientifically proven to help you relax while delivering certain health benefits.

According to the National Institutes of Health, which are part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the power of pets is not to be dismissed lightly. Human-animal interactions are scientifically proven to improve your day; people who own pets are more likely to engage in outdoor recreation, and pets also deliver many mental health benefits to their owners. Companionship counts, so consider investing in a furry friend if you've been feeling burnt out lately.

You should also know what to avoid. Drinking alcohol and doing drugs may seem like a stress-reliever to some, but this is medically proven to be false. This isn't to say that having an ice cold beer after a long day of work is always bad for you. Rather, it's to say that consistently drinking or overindulging is virtually guaranteed to lead to health problems and mental health issues which will exacerbate your stress. This is according to Dr. Kirtly Jones, who was interviewed by The Scope of the University of Utah's physicians and specialists.

Getting medical care can also help you relieve stress. A cheap MRI, a good teeth cleaning, a physical therapy routine, and regular exercise coupled with a healthy diet all go a long way toward reducing your stress levels. Leading a healthier lifestyle isn't always easy, but it garners serious results that are worthy of your attention if you're feeling depressed.

Avoid vexatious people who bring you down

You must avoid vexatious and toxic people who ruin your life with negativity and hurtful comments. Being around others who constantly drag you down is terrible for your mental health. Standing up for yourself and socially distancing yourself from those who seek to bully you is often difficult, but it's imperative to do this if you're feeling stressed and overworked. Be sure to schedule some "me-time" every week and to regularly surround yourself with individuals who demonstrably care about your wellbeing. The alternative is heightened stress levels and an unhappy lifestyle.

Besides avoiding negative people, you must eat healthy, exercise regularly, and avoid nasty habits like routine smoking or overdrinking to maintain a stress-free lifestyle. Getting a pet can also work wonders on the human mind, so don't discount the possibility of investing in a furry companion who can brighten your day. What you put into your body is what you get out of it - avoid negative habits and common stressors, and soon you'll be feeling better in no time.