Stress Management Diary

Stressing the Positives: This is the motto of this year’s National Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday, 4 November. Yet, how do you stress the positives when things go wrong in your life?

· First of all, stay active: Get out of bed in the morning, groom yourself, and set yourself a task for the day.
· Take care of yourself: Eat healthily, exercise, and get a decent amount of sleep.
· Do something enjoyable each day.
· Set yourself small, achievable goals that will help you improve your situation and make a list of actions that will help you achieve these goals. These action lists should include a timeframe/deadline.
· Make a chart on a piece of paper, and write down on one side the disadvantages and problems of your situation and on the other side the advantages and opportunities. If you can’t think of anything positive ask yourself: ‘If there was anything positive, what would this be?’.
· Stop negative thoughts: If you get carried away by worries and anxieties, say to yourself in a firm and convincing tone (silently or aloud): STOP! Then think exactly the opposite (even if it is not true or you don’t believe it). Or use a comforting phrase like ‘I’ll be all right’, ‘I can handle this’, ‘this will pass’.
· Think of a time when you mastered a similar situation.
· Surround yourself with supportive, positive and cheerful people.
· Smile.
· Get help if necessary.