Article # 7
Mood disorders are changeable, with time and some needed life changes you can reduce your stress levels significantly. There are several different ways to lower your stress levels, but first you must recognize the main stressors in your life. Avoid stressors as much as possible and find ways to deal with those that cannot be avoided such as work and school. Find a friend that supports this life change, set up a time to discuss the stress in your life and let off some steam. This friend is someone who you can turn to when you are struggling and need help coping. However if you are not quite ready to talk in the open about your issues then taking up journaling is recommended. Simply write down your thoughts and feelings about the things that are stressing you out. Writing and other creative endeavors are extremely therapeutic and you don’t have to worry about how good it is or sharing it with anyone else. Setting aside a time for relaxation is also highly recommended. Try different kinds of relaxing activities such as walking, meditating, listening or making music or art, light exercising, or breathing exercises. Try these activities until you find the one that works for you. The best times to practice these are immediately after or even during a stressful event. Using alcohol or illegal drugs to reduce stress is highly recommended against. In many cases money is the biggest stressor, managing your money by creating a budget and sticking to it. Being physically healthy can greatly increase your mental health. Be sure to get regular checkups and to take care of yourself both when sick and while healthy. Sleep is a huge factor in physical health, without a proper amount of sleep it is hard to function properly much less handle stress correctly. Sleepless nights will also contribute to stress levels. Keeping a proper diet is also beneficial to stress levels. Drinking at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day and getting the proper amount of fruits and...