It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, we’re all dealing with heightened levels of stress. And, according to experts, that’s ok. Simply recognizing that we’re not in this alone is a great step towards coping with our anxiety.

Here are a few more ways to deal with stress.

• It’s normal.
  Recognize you’re stressed and accept it. The simple act of acknowledging how you feel helps you accept those emotions and begin coping with them.
• Focus on what you can control.
  There’s plenty going on we can’t control. Fine. But there are a lot of things you can control…your meals, your activities, your exposure to news. Focus your energy on those.
• Fight the urge to distance yourself.
  It’s easy to withdraw from others when you’re stressed. Fight that tendency and work at staying connected with family, friends and colleagues.
• Identify your best coping methods.
  No one knows you like you. Identify what helps you cope best. Reading, meditation, cooking, exercise, talking with others…find what it is and do it.
• Take a break from it all.
  We’re bombarded 24/7 with stats, facts and fears. Unplug for a while. Tuning out gives you a much needed break.
• Focus on helping others.
  Help yourself by helping others. Reach out to neighbors, friends and family members to be part of their support group.

If you’re having trouble coping, contact your healthcare provider for a mental health professional referral.  Stay well!