Are you feeling STRESSED out? If so, you aren’t alone. Many of us are feeling stress and it can come from a variety of sources. Financial worries contribute to the stress load for many of us.
Other common examples of stress include: 
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- Money Worries
- Work Responsibilities including Job Stability
- Relationships
- Family Health Problems
- Personal Safety
- Housing Costs
- Personal Health Concerns
We react to stress in many ways. How do you respond to stress? Look over these questions to identify your response to stress.
Does the situation make your heart pound faster?
Does it make you sweat?
Do you get a headache? Or, a stomach ache?
Do you experience tightness in the neck or shoulders?
Do you have trouble sleeping (too little or too much)?
Are you breathing faster?
Are you restless? Or, feeling anger for no apparent reason?
Do you have difficulty thinking clearly?
Are you feeling tired all the time?
Being aware of your physical responses to stress helps you identify when you are feeling stressed out. When you realize you are stressed out, what can you do? Try some positive lifestyle habits to help you cope with stress:
Take care of yourself first.
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Exercise on a regular basis – try to get at least 30 minutes a day.
Get plenty of sleep – a recommended 7 to 8 hours each night.
Give yourself a break if you feel stressed out by listening to your favorite music or spending time with a friend.
Explore relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Write in a journal.
Read a favorite or positive thinking book for 10 minutes every day.
Being aware of stress
Being aware of stress is the first step to help you cope with life stress. Positive Thinking and Positive Self Talk can also help you cope. How you think affects how you feel and behave!
