Ten Ways to Handle Stress

1. LOOK FOR THE CAUSES: Who or what is at the bottom of the stress? Dealing directly with the person or issue may be the best approach.

2. EXAMINE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS. What can you do to put more warmth, more communication, and more mutual support into them?

3. EVALUATE. Not every argument is worth trying to win. Defend values that are important but learn to ignore lesser issues.

4. BE POSITIVE. If you fail, don't concentrate on failure. Deliberately recall past successes. It helps self-esteem.

5. SEEK ADVICE. Confiding in a friend can uncoil the tightly wound spring of tension. Seek professional assistance when needed. You're worth it!

6. DO SOMETHING FOR OTHERS. Reaching out can occasionally take the focus off self and reduce the stress caused by brooding.

7. DO ONE THING AT A TIME. The seconds pass in single file; yet, how quickly they become minutes and hours. You'll get more done with less "hassle" when you concentrate on each job as it comes.

8. LEARN TO PACE YOURSELF. You can't operate in high gear all the time. And you can't just "sit there" all the time, either. Take a break. Go for a walk. Look out the window. Do something else.

9. EXERCISE. Physical exercise can refresh you after heavy emotional strains. Reading a book can relax you after physical action.

10. CREATE A QUIET PLACE. Take time to meditate, to pray, if you choose. Recent studies of meditation techniques and yoga show that we can train ourselves to relax.

Source: Oncology Patient Education Manual: 7:12.2. Supplement #4, September 1998