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The death of a loved one, relationship troubles, illness, troubles at work, financial problems and worrying about the future are just a few items that can cause you to become stressed. While these are the inevitable motions of life, unfortunately most, if not all, medical conditions can be exacerbated if the patient is going through a stressful event in their lives. It is essential that we take notice when we are going through a stressful period in our lives whether it is an emotional, psychological or physical strain, or the stresses that come with dealing with something unforeseen such as the impact of COVID-19 on our day-to-day lives. Here are some practical ways to keep your vitals in check If you find yourself in a stressful period in your life.

1. See a professional

There is truly no shame in asking for help whenever you find yourself in over your head.  Everyone has been in a similar situation at least once in their lives for a myriad of different reasons. This could mean going to see a doctor if you are dealing with pain or discomfort, seeing a lawyer where legal matters are concerned, seeing a debt counsellor or financial advisor for money matters, or a psychologist if you are struggling to cope with something on an emotional or behavioural level. All these professions and disciplines exist for the purpose of helping those who need it at their most vulnerable moments.

2. Stick to your daily routine as far as possible

It is easy to get overwhelmed and for your balance to be thrown out of whack when dealing with unexpected episodes of stress. This is why it is important to keep most of your life as balanced as possible to put you in a better position to cope with the matter and avoid aggravating your stress. Maintaining a healthy diet, keeping up with exercise regimes and chores can help you stay grounded during the most vexing moments in your life. It gives you a sense of accomplishment over the daily activities that you still have control over and gives you the perspective that you need to see that it is not the end of the world.

3. Find a productive outlet

Although it may not seem that way from the onset, going through a stressful episode might be the push that you need to reconnect with yourself and with the things that you enjoy doing. Rediscovering old hobbies that you never seem to have the time to partake in can be very relaxing and calming. These activities remind you of the pleasurable moments that you still have access to in your life despite being able to do them daily. They send feel-good hormones through your body, take your mind off the stress for a while and revive your optimism. Dedicating an hour a day or a weekend each month to that one thing that you really love doing might just be the pick-me-up that you need to reset your positive mindset.

4. Turn to spirituality

Spirituality is a place where many people turn to when they come upon difficult times. It can help you to deal with grief, pain and things that may not always have answers to. This can be a source of comfort for you whether you subscribe to a conventional religion where you can visit a respective divine location for prayer or any alternative option. Alternative choices may include meditation, yoga, burning sage, interacting with crystals, or even having a good cry. These practices can be followed as often as needed, since they offer a spiritual and emotional purge which can lift the burden and uplift your spirit.

5. Take some time to yourself and your loved ones

The effectiveness of human contact in the reduction of stress levels is something that behavioural sciences have alluded to for years. Although not all of us may understand the science or biology behind it, we all know that our family and friends have the unique ability to make us feel better during our darkest days with their affection, smiles and words of affirmation and encouragement. When facing uncertainty and the stresses that accompany it, make sure to set some time aside to spend with your children, your partner and the girls/guys; and don’t forget to pay your parents or grandparents a visit if you can. This can help remind you what the most important thing in your life is and give you the strength that you need to fight another day.