Stress takes many forms. People of all ages struggle with mental health conditions, chronic illness, and fatigue that can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. Taking steps to manage your stress can help improve your quality of life and focus on the things in your life that make you feel good. Depending on your discomfort levels, you may benefit from making small lifestyle changes, seeking counseling, or simply having compassion for yourself instead of forcing productivity.

1. Get comfortable.

Sometimes, discomfort can be a trigger for stress. On a good day, your slightly too-tight shirt or uncomfortable shoes may be manageable. However, in times of high pressure, feeling uncomfortable in your clothes and skin is extremely aggravating. Clothes should be made to fit you, not the other way around.

If you have a stressful work week ahead of you, consider picking out a few outfits that you know you can feel comfortable in. For example, if you suffer from low back pain or aching feet after spending time out of the house, it may be time to look into where to buy PowerStep insoles. Making small changes to your lifestyle to boost comfort levels can help make daily stressors more manageable.

2. Make time for yourself.

You are busy. Nearly every adult in America is—a 40-hour workweek, commute, and cooking dinner for yourself leave hardly any time to unwind. It is easy to get caught up in a routine and not realize how much you have neglected your needs. Make sure that you aren’t overworking yourself by setting aside some time to relax.

Taking a hot bath, meditating, or even practicing deep breathing techniques for a few minutes before bed can help you feel more in control of your schedule. Simple pleasures like catching up on a TV show you enjoy can be overlooked when you have many responsibilities to attend to. Don’t feel guilty about taking time out for self-care.

3. Reorganize your space.

Our surroundings play a significant role in the way we feel internally. For example, clutter or disorganization can facilitate negative emotions like stress and anxiety. This issue may be exacerbated if you work from home because your work supplies and personal belongings intermingle.

Throw away any unnecessary items and reorganize your space to create a more zen environment. Use folders to organize work papers, clear off your countertops and coffee table, and wipe down your surfaces. Some organic cleaners are made with essential oils; try using a soothing scent like lavender or citrus for an extra aromatherapy boost.

4. Talk to someone.

If your stress levels are becoming challenging to manage on your own, talk to someone. There are several different types of therapy that you can look into to find one that will be a good fit for you. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have begun to seek treatment to cope with the trauma and heightened anxiety levels. It can be as simple as searching Google for “therapy near me” to start your stress management journey.

Some people may struggle with communication; it can be hard to tell friends and family how we’re doing when it isn’t good. However, getting an outside perspective and confiding in a trusted psychologist can be precisely what you need to pinpoint the sources of your stress and reduce or eliminate them.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as tending to your physical health. Counseling services are flexible. You can opt for in-person therapy services or remote options like Skype calls. Some people also benefit from therapy in a group setting or animal-assisted therapy.

Only you can decide what the right amount of care looks like when it comes to stress management. Making a few minor changes can amount to a big difference. However, if these changes have not been enough to combat your stress, it may be time to seek therapy services. Everyone deserves happiness, including you. Taking time to work on yourself can improve your outlook on life, strengthen your relationships, and help you succeed in your career.