Stress Management Techniques

Below are some strategies that many people have found helpful in reducing their stress levels. Pick one or two you think might work for you and try them out. If you find one or two you like, list them on the form below (with other techniques that work for you). Next post this list in your room where you’ll notice it, when you’re feeling stressed and need a stress tip.

  1. Talk it out to a friend or family member: Often sharing our problem(s) with a friend or parent can help us feel better, and may also help us see optional options to address the difficulty.

  2. Write it out:  Plan half an hour to sit down by yourself and simply write! Put pen to paper and write one to three pages about how you are feeling. Don’t try to edit your thoughts or to stick to one topic --  let your thoughts take you where they want to go. Chances are you will see the problem more clearly, and you may get closer to finding potential solutions. When you have finished writing, most likely you will feel better.

  3. Exercise: Exercise can be a great stress reducer.* Exercise allows your body to unwind and release built up tensions, as well as lowers blood pressure and helps maintain your weight.  It’s important to find something you like to do (then you’re more likely to follow though!). The list of options is long, but here are some popular stress-busting exercises: walk, yoga, run, lift weights, bike, use exercise machines,  etc.

    *Of course, over-exercising is not only stressful, but can damage your health.

  4. Take time for some fun!!!  You’ve heard it before, but it actually works! Take a break, relax, have fun! If you schedule in break some time from your work, you’ll be more productive in the long run. And be sure to plan several stress-reducing,  pleasurable events for the weekends.  

  5. Positive Self-Talk:  Sometimes the messages we give ourselves can be counterproductive. Listen to your internal messages to see if they’re positive or negative. If you catch yourself calling yourself “dumb” or another negative adjective, stop and think how you can rephrase the message. Instead of  “that was dumb,” you can substitute “Darn, I wish I hadn’t done that…but I’m human and everyone makes mistakes.” Simple as it sounds, the internal messages we give our selves are important – a change in semantics can reduce your stress level and improve your outlook.

  6. Ask for Help When You need It: Smith has many resources for students (see list). Counseling is available to all Smith students at no charge and is completely confidential.

 

--> List below several stress management techniques that work for you and/or you’d like to try. Post the list in your room, to remind yourself to use a technique when you get stressed!

(example)   My Personal Stress Management Techniques:

    1. ________________________________________________
    2. ________________________________________________
    3. ________________________________________________
    4. ________________________________________________
    5. ________________________________________________

 

 

STRESS BUSTERS RESOURCE LIST:

 

 

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