Know how to manage stress by using these 4 fantastic tips

People so often advise, “Don’t stress, it will affect your health.” Well, nobody likes to be stressed, but it’s not as easy as just flipping a switch and turning off the stress. But there are certainly some ways to help you manage stress.

It is well known that stress has a direct impact on our heart health. Several studies have proven that more stress leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. A 2007 study discusses chronic stressors in relation to work stress, marital unhappiness, and caregiving burden. These types of stress contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

On this World Heart Day, let us make efforts to take care of our heart health by managing our stress. To learn more about how to manage stress, Health Shots turned to Dr. Kamna Chhibber, a clinical psychologist at Fortis Healthcare, and she suggested some ways to deal with stress.

How to manage stress for good heart health?

1. Develop a problem-solving approach to reduce stress

Unsolved problems or finding problems in every situation instead of solutions can be a major cause of your stress. That is why it is important that we learn to change our perception of things. “Take a problem-solving approach. The emotions in the situation can make you cling to the problem instead of looking for the solution,” says Dr. chhibber. For example, let’s say your boss has increased your responsibilities, so don’t see it as an increase in workload but as your boss’s confidence in your abilities.

2. Learn to accept certain situations

“If you find yourself getting stuck in cycles of overthinking, try to look for ways to manage the thoughts. Address them or recognize that the situation may not be solvable and build acceptance for it,” suggests Dr. chhibber before. She adds that you “need to focus on what you can control in situations and where you can make changes. Push yourself to stop getting stuck on the things you can’t control and can’t change.” So, you can manage stress by not becoming fixated on certain uncontrollable situations.

3. Maintain a work-life balance to deal with stress

dr Chhibber says you should make sure you work towards balancing life with both what your responsibilities are and the things that bring you joy and pleasure, as this will help you manage your stress. “Look within to see the little things that make you happy and allow you to relax and unwind. Invest in these consistently,” she says.

4. Invest in good relationships

Being around people with whom you feel emotionally safe can push you to be at peace and manage your stress. “Build a robust support system around yourself. Invest in the relationships that matter to you. Make time for them and share your experiences with them,” says Dr. chhibber. She further suggests “discussing the situations you are in and talking about the thoughts and feelings that may be difficult for you. Talking can give perspective and support can also be beneficial in coping with stress.”