Did you know April is stress awareness month? According to the National Institute of mental health, physical and emotional reaction that people experience as they encounter challenges in life. It’s a human response that everyone goes through, to varying degrees. How you interpret stress effects each of us differently.

Some stress factors may include, but not limited to:

• Divorce
• Loss of a job
• The death of a loved one
• Increase in financial obligations
• Getting married
• Moving to a new home
• Chronic illness or injury
• Emotional problems (depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, low self-esteem)

To manage & find your calm, the American Psychological Association suggests a number of ways to improve your stress.

1. A healthy and consist sleep pattern

   Poor sleeping habits can have a negative impact and increase the stress hormone levels.

2. Practicing self-care and making yourself a priority

   Exercise can help decrease depression and anxiety along with eating a balanced diet. Research has also shown this has an effect on how you think and feel.

3. Disconnect from social media and other electronics

   Interacting with people with face-to-face can help prevent the fear of missing out.

4. Engage in relaxation exercises such as meditation

   This can help with your state of mind and may help you feel calmer.

5. Seek support

   Stay in touch with a trusted family member, friend who can provide a safe space to speak about what you are experiencing. A safe and trusted person will be supportive, understanding, non-judgmental, and someone who is validating of feelings.

6. Get help from a mental health professional

   Seeking help is a sign of strength! It is important to know treatment is effective, can help you recover, and help you live a healthy and rewarding life.

Even though we can’t control everything, the work we do on ourselves matters because we matter. YWCA Northwestern Illinois is here to help guide and navigate you towards a life that is joyful and well deserved!

-Sara Gonzalez, YWCA Northwestern Illinois, Mental Health Crisis Manager