While a little stress is necessary to get us going, too much stress is often linked to weakened immune systems, obesity, some forms of cancer, and dietary problems.

Here are 4 tips to help you manage your stress levels with the “four A’s”

Avoid: While it’s not always possible to avoid all stressful situations, becoming more aware of your limits, time, and resources can help. Learn to say “no” to things that are optional, but potentially stressful. Plan for deadline-driven tasks in advance to avoid last-minute stressors.

Alter: Do you struggle to avoid or prevent stressful situations? Try to alter or change it if you can. For example, if you’re stressed by living with inconsiderate flatmates, plan to move out and share with other friends. Is the traffic causing you unnecessary stress? Consider changing up your routine.

Adapt: It’s not always in our control to change a situation or a person. However, we can control our mindsets and thoughts. Make mental lists of all the positive things about a person or a stressful situation. For example, view the person or task you’re struggling with as an opportunity to learn something new.  

Accept: Sometimes, we can’t avoid or change anything about a situation or relationship that’s stressful, negative, or uncomfortable. No amount of willpower or positive thinking will make it better. In these instances, we can choose acceptance. Acceptance allows you to move on, while non-acceptance leads to more suffering or being ‘stuck.’ Learning acceptance means that you recognise the reality of the situation or person, without attempting to change it or even protesting it.

Do you need help managing overwhelming stress? Reach out to the NMG SmartAssist Programme for support.