Tips for helping people deal with stress and stessful situations. Post your ideas.
Try taking a B-complex vitamin formula. It is water soluble so you can't over dose. I call them my Happy Pills. They really work and start within 24 hours. The more stressful you are the more your body depletes itself of those fabulous Bs. The less Bs you have, the more stressful you become. A vicious circle. Some folks need the Bs daily. Others take them periodically or as needed. They work for depression too.
You don't need the expensive ones from the health food store. The cheap generic ones work fine. If they don't work for you take more. Your body will absorb what it needs and get rid of the extra. It may require different amounts each day, depending on the stress level or depression you currently have. Start with 100s. Remember you can't overdose. If the world was all on B complex, far fewer suicides, wars, divorces, psychiatric patients, etc. Good luck to you.
(03/26/2005)
By deb
If you believe in a Higher Power...pray. I believe in God. I've let Him down many times, but He's never let me down! (03/28/2005)
I never used to think twice when I yelled at my kids, until I heard the neighbor next door yelling at her child. Now I try to imagine what I must sound like to someone else before I open my mouth to them. Also, there's the old stand-by of counting to10. (03/28/2005)
By Renee
Try taking magnesium supplements (about 500 mg. per day) since it has a relaxing effect and is also good for your heart. I sleep much better when I take 1/2 of my magnesium dosage right before bed. (03/29/2005)
By Suzie
Some might not think of this tip as thrifty. But if you do this, it might save you a trip to the hospital.
Stress affects people in different ways, here are a few examples: broken blood vessel in one of your eyes, acne, etc. Take time every day, if for no longer than 10-15 minutes, to daydream. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, let your mind wander to some place you'd like to vacation (ex: a Caribbean island). Imagine the island breezes blowing through your hair, envision the waves of the ocean rolling over your feet. You'll be surprised at how refreshed you'll be afterwards. Remember to take time for yourself. (08/23/2005)
How about music. Classical music is very relaxing. You can even use soundtrack music. John Williams (of Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jaws and much more) fame has composed some of the most beautiful music. Put on the music, lie on your bed, close your eyes, and breathe as deep as you can, hold it for a count of two, and slowly release. Do that several times. You'll find that each time, you will relax just a little more.
Also, a warm but not quite hot towel on your back can relax you. Make the towel as warm as possible. Too hot and it is just uncomfortable, not to mention you can burn yourself. Fold the towel so it covers your back and lie on your stomach, with your arms above your head. Let the warmth from the towel relax your back. It works wonders after chasing after two small children all day. (08/23/2005)
By KLS8800
All these tips are great. I have one more. If the stress gets to the point that you can't think straight, I have found doing a jigsaw puzzle to be great! My mind has to focus on the puzzle, and there is at least a respite from my thoughts. After awhile, just no thinking on what brings the stress helps me even after I'm finished with the puzzle. (08/24/2005)
By Eileen from Queens
Exercising has made a real difference for me. (08/24/2005)
By Cassie
My doctor had prescribed Paxil, as well as other medications for anxiety and depression. They helped for a while, but I no longer need them since I found Yoga. I used to think Yoga was weird and was some kind of cult thing. But I broke down and bought a Yoga video on clearance (w/ Rodney Yee) at Blockbuster and it has literally changed my life and my body! It has given me peace of mind and has improved my mental and physical health unbelievably.
It improves your posture, benefits your immune system and digestive system as well as other benefits. It focuses a lot on breathing too. You would be surprised how much of a difference it can make after you learn how to breathe correctly. My 2 young boys (ages 6 and 8) also practice Yoga. They have a video of Yoga for Kids, and they are so much more peaceful now.
Another thing that helps me is Lavender or Eucalyptus scented essential oils. I sprinkle a few drops in my bath water, or on my bed sheets, in my car and keep some handy in my purse, so wherever I am, I can just take it out for a quick whiff to calm myself.
These have been the most effective ways for me. Give them a try. (08/25/2005)
By jo
A great way to relieve stress is to exercise, exercise, exercise! It doesn't have to cost anything either. Walking in your neighborhood every day doesn't cost a dime.
One of my favorite ways to de-stress is to listen to soft, calm music. I love to just sit back and close my eyes and take some deep breaths while listening. Great relaxation! Another way I love to de-stress is by watching old I Love Lucy videos! Laughter is a great medicine. It helps lower blood pressure and tends to reduce stress. I always feel much more relaxed after a good laugh session! (08/30/2005)
Meditation is really wonderful. You can do it anywhere! Do a search online for free guided meditations that you can download. Many groups in cities also offer free meditation sessions too. Try any Shambala Centres or Universities. (05/30/2008)
By Lisa
If you have a pet, spend time petting, playing, and walking with the pet. I know that always puts a smile on my face. Pets have proven they reduce stress in their human companions. If you do not have a pet, why not volunteer at your local animal shelter or animal control facility? While relieving your stress, the attention you give to a homeless pet can help relieve their stress as well. (10/15/2008)
By Victoria
Other tips I use for dealing with stress is to put your hands under warm running water (tap), and let your mind focus on the sensation for a few minutes. I tried this when going through the first weeks of quitting smoking! ( (10/15/2008)
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