Stress Management

Why is managing your stress important?

There are two different types of stress:

1. Distress - negative stress (like a breakup)
2. Eustress - positive stress (like starting a new job)

The right amount of stress can be a positive force that helps us to do our best and to keep alert and energetic. Too much stress, however, can make us tense and anxious.

High levels of distress put your entire well-being at risk by impacting your emotional stability, as well as your physical health. High levels of stress narrow your ability to think clearly, function effectively, and enjoy life.

It may seem like there’s nothing that can be done about stress, but you have a lot more control than you might think.

Stress management helps break the hold stress has on your life, so you can be happier, healthier, and more productive. The ultimate goal is a balanced life, with time for work, relationships, relaxation, and fun—and the resilience to hold up under pressure and meet challenges head on.

Can stress be a good thing?

In small doses experts say stress can actually have some positive effects.

Medium levels of stress can enhance your motivation. For example, the stress of a deadline can help you focus and pay more attention because time is running out.

Stress also forces you to problem-solve, ultimately building confidence and skills that are important for future experiences. With increased resiliency and confidence, you tend to feel less threatened and more in control of your situations. Using stress to face fears or challenges can also help you work through experiences instead of avoiding them. After facing a fear, you feel more equipped to handle it in the future, since you have already experienced it.

One of the most surprising benefits of stress is that it can help you build interpersonal relationships, which are key to overall health. By opening up to one another, people feel better because they can relate to each other’s struggles and validate their feelings, creating positivity out of a negative experience. Talking to friends and family can build and strengthen relationships too, since many of these relationships wouldn't be the same if they hadn't gone through the tough times together.

Stress will often be a part of the goals you work the hardest at. The accomplishments that you are most proud of and bring the most meaning in your life are often hard and stressful. The journey of working through the stress to reach your goals gives meaning to your struggles and accomplishments.

Think about it

What does your stress management routine look like?

How can making stress management a priority make you a better employee, student, friend or family member?

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