There are many different strategies used to cope with stress and anxiety.

According to Healthline, stress and anxiety are common experiences for many people. It is important to minimize these for overall health.

Healthline suggests common, evidence-based ways to relieve stress and anxiety.

Physical Activity:

Exercises help reduce stress and improve symptoms related to mental health conditions. “I go to the gym and workout when I feel anxious,” said Mason Anderson, senior.

Self-care:

Taking care of yourself is an important part in managing stress. Things like going for a walk, taking a hot bath, reading a book, getting a massage, yoga, etc. are all forms of self-care. “I distract myself in some kind of way like hanging out with someone, listening to music, or taking a long, hot shower; all are my go-to’s when I feel stressed,” said Alyssa Radar, senior.

Practice Deep Breathing: 

Mental stress causes the body to go into fight-or-flight mode due to it acting on the sympathetic nervous system. During this, stress hormones trigger symptoms like a faster heartbeat, constricted blood vessels, and quicker breathing. Deep breathing exercises help control the relaxation response. “I work out when stressed and make sure I am aware of my breathing patterns,” said Carly Stowe, junior.

“I will take deep breaths and try to think rationally about what’s going on when I get really anxious,” said Kelsey Shelton, senior.

Time Alone: 

Some people find it better to deal with stress and anxiety by being alone. This gives them the time to calm down, relax, and focus on themselves. “I go to a quiet place and calm down whenever I feel too overwhelmed,” said Zoie Tahseen, senior.

Staying Positive: 

Looking at the glass as half-full rather than half-empty betters one’s mindset. It is best to remain positive about stressful situations. Thinking more negatively will stress you out even more. “I try to look at the good that will come out of the situation and take it from there,” said Mary Spain, junior.