THE 6 R’S OF STRESS MANAGEMENT

1. RECOGNIZE Be aware of when stress becomes overwhelming and has a negative impact on you.

2. REDUCE Do an inventory of your stress and understand which stressful items you can control and deal with them. Also, learn to accept the things that you cannot control.

3. RESPOND Make sure you treat your body responsibly through healthy nutrition, physical and mental activity, enough sleep, and taking the time to recharge.

4. RELAX Take the time to kick back and enjoy life. Spend time with family and take time to do things you like to do.

5. REACH OUT Identify your support system. Verbalizing your thoughts and feelings can be helpful. You will find it normalizes and validates the feelings you are experiencing.

6. RESOURCES Remember that there are resources available – from books to read to organizations such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, as well as professionals who are trained to help you.

Remember, it is ok to be stressed, and it is ok to reach out for help if stress gets overwhelming!!!