Stress can come from major life events, such as switching careers, or minor incidents like getting stuck in traffic. Stress affects us all in different ways.

Stress is known to cause stomach aches, insomnia and depression, and contributes to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, over-consumption of alcohol, and poor eating habits. It also carries risks of long-term health consequences like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, or even immune and circulatory complications. For women, chronic stress can also lead to irregular menstrual cycles, decreased fertility, and an increased risk of certain autoimmune diseases.

Identify the problem. What is causing your stress? Once you know your stress triggers, you can work on a solution.

Connect with others. Having another person for support is always better than facing problems on your own.

Exercise. Physical activity is a great way to reduce tension

Pause. Breathe. Reflect. Tension meditation and progressive relaxation are techniques that encourage deep breathing and stretching your whole body can help silence the mind and take the pressure off.

Disconnect. Even though we live in a highly wired world, you don’t have to always “be on”. Unplug and unwind at least an hour a day.

Take a mental holiday. By reading, taking up a hobby or becoming involved in sports. It will also give you distance from your problems and a different perspective, helping them feel easier to solve.

Go easy. Stress can contribute to negative thinking. Stay positive, be flexible, be kind to yourself and be realistic. There are some things you cannot change. Look for practical solutions.

Practice self-care. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Make decisions. Worrying about making a decision only causes more stress.

Don’t delay. Develop a weekly schedule that includes a combination of to-do items and leisure activities.

Delegate. Let others take on some of your tasks. You do not have to do everything on your own.