Stress is a normal response to a challenge or demand. In short bursts, it can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline.
On the other hand, chronic stress is ongoing, unrelenting tension that may continue for weeks or months. It can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, depression, or anxiety.
Pay attention to when you feel stress and try one of these stress-reducing strategies to relieve the tension.
Get active. Take a walk, go for a run, play basketball with the kids. Movement helps to naturally reduce stress.
- Eat healthy. Skip fast food, high-calorie snacks, and sugary beverages…and choose more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Practice mindfulness. Learn how to focus your attention and quiet the stream of jumbled thoughts that may be crowding your mind.
- Connect. Talking with one good friend who listens can make a difference in your outlook.
- Say “no.” Set healthy boundaries and avoid over-committing your time and energy, even to good causes.
- Get enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, giving your brain and body enough rest to recharge.
Get Help
Your Health Plan gives you several options to get care for your behavioral health and mental wellness including addictions, caregiver support, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, gender-affirmation, parenting support, stress management, and more.
- A medical doctor can address any physical causes and prescribe medication and treatment, if appropriate.
- A behavioral health provider, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist can meet with you in-person or online. Log in on Regence.com to search for an in-network provider.
- MDLIVE: There is no cost to you for live video sessions. Schedule a visit on MDLIVE.com/regence-or, download the app on your phone, or call 1 (888) 725-3097.
- Regence Empower™ gives you access to videos, articles, and podcasts to help you learn strategies to manage stress and practice mindfulness. Download the app to get started.