Stress less for your mental wellbeing

 

Have you ever heard a psychologist speak of the “stress bucket”? It’s not a physical bucket, it’s an analogy. Imagine that all of the stressful events and occurrences throughout your day, even the minor ones, are like drops of water, slowly filling a bucket. If you don’t find ways to empty the bucket (relax and de-stress) on a regular basis, it will eventually overflow. So keep a mental note of how full your stress bucket is and try to de-stress accordingly.

 

Focus on eating well and getting some good quality rest

 

We all know deep down that eating a balanced diet and getting adequate rest are good for you. But did you know they can help your body and mind adapt and constructively respond to the events in your life? We tend to make bad choices when we’re stressed – especially when it comes to food and drink. This in turn can affect our sleep, which makes us more stressed which can make us eat badly, and it goes on and on.

 

Actively relax

 

Sinking into the couch every chance you can get isn’t relaxing, it’s potatoing. Find an activity that helps you unwind like jogging, yoga, gardening, or even meditation. Learning to relax by allocating time to do the things you enjoy can help reduce stress.

 

It’s OK to say NO

 

A first step to creating more balance between work and the activities you enjoy doing can be as simple as learning to say ‘no’ — you can’t do everything for everyone, and nor should you feel you have to.

 

Avoid major change when stressed

 

Making major life changes can be incredibly stressful at the best of times. If you’re already feeling stressed, it may be wise to avoid the big changes like moving house or changing jobs until you’re feeling more on top of things.

 

Express yourself

 

Bottling up your feelings isn’t the way forward. Find a confidante or even a psychologist or counsellor, if necessary, to help you put feelings in to words. You may be better equipped to tackle personal problems if you articulate your feelings and learn to share them with your loved ones in a constructive way.

 

Just breathe

 

Short-term coping strategies such as meditative breathing and relaxation strategies are a great way to help you de-stress every day.

 

Know when to get help

 

For some people, the accumulation of everyday stressors, if left to fester, can trigger symptoms severe enough to warrant seeking medical attention. If you feel like your stress levels are starting to impact on your mental health, there are many health professionals and services available to help with information, treatment and support. Your GP is a good starting point for seeking professional help.

 

If you would like to find out more about helpful health tips to manage stress please do not hesitate to contact your Bupa representative.

 

Not yet registered with Bupa?  (Click on first link below)  to register now https://migrationalliance.bupa.com.au/For-migration-agents/register 

 

Sources beyondblue. Recovery and staying well [Online; accessed Aug 2016] Available online: www.beyondblue.org.au

 

Albrecht, K. Psychology Today. Is your “bucket” leaking? [Online] 2012 [Accessed Aug 2016] Available from: www.psychologytoday.com (Click on second link below)

 

Disclaimer This information has been reviewed for Bupa by health professionals and to the best of their knowledge is current and based on reputable sources of medical research. It should be used as a guide only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice. Bupa HI Pty Ltd (and its related entities) makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the recommendations or assessments and is not liable for any loss or damage you suffer arising out of the use of or reliance on the information, except that which cannot be excluded by law. We recommend that you consult your doctor or other qualified health professional if you have questions or concerns about your health.