Stress Management

Warning signs of stress

When you learn the early warning signs of chronic stress, you can learn how to manage them.

  • Headaches
  • General body aches
  • Problems sleeping
  • Tight jaw
  • Grinding teeth
  • Hands shaking
  • Increase or loss of appetite
  • Heartburn or stomach pain
  • Dizziness
  • Tight muscles in the neck, face, or shoulders
  • Fast heart rate
  • Cold and sweaty palms 
  • Feeling tired all the time

Dealing with stress

Here are some tips for dealing with stress.

  • Change the situation by avoiding the stressor.
    • Avoid people who upset you.
    • Avoid topics in conversation that upset you.
    • Avoid taking on more than you can handle.
  • Alter the stress level if you can't avoid the stressor.
    • Speak up; tell others how you feel.
    • Learn to compromise in certain situations.
    • Manage your time better so you don't feel rushed.
  • Change your reaction by adapting to the stressor.
    • See the positive sides of the situation.
    • Make your expectations more realistic. 
    • Figure out how to spend your time and energy in better ways.
  • Learn to accept the stressors you cannot change.
    • Learn from your mistakes.
    • Forgive those who stress you out.
    • Let go.

Ways to let go

  • Go for a walk.
  • Work in your yard or garden.
  • Write your thoughts down.
  • Work out.
  • Call a good friend.
  • Play with a pet.
  • Listen to music.
  • Watch a funny TV show.
  • Get lost in a good book.
  • Take a long bath.
  • Practice yoga or relaxation exercises.
  • Take up a hobby.

Yoga for stress management

Stress and anxiety can affect you in many ways. You may bite your nails, have body aches, and have trouble sleeping. Doing yoga is a healthy way to help relieve stress. It can also build strength and improve balance.

People of all ages can do yoga. Introducing yoga at an early age can help children and teens struggling with anxiety, confidence, or low self-esteem. Yoga can also help relieve stress that may be affecting school grades and friendships.

Many websites and apps have videos you can get on your TV, computer, or mobile device, like a smartphone. Many TV channels also offer yoga and other exercise shows. Join your child in practicing yoga and make it a regular way to help manage stress. For a free video to share with your child or teen, go to the Nemours KidsHealth website.

Self-management tools