Stress Management Made Simple: Helpful Tips to Live Your Best Life
August 06, 2025 | Tags:
Stress is a part of life. Whether it’s positive or negative stress, at some point, all of us will experience it. However, stress can affect your body if left unchecked. Here are some helpful tips for when you encounter stressful situations how to successfully navigate through them.
Physical ways to combat stress
Your physical well-being may be the first thought that comes to your mind when thinking about your health. Indeed, there is a link between your physical and mental health. Here are a few actions you can take to address stress:
- Exercise in the way that works best for you: Regardless of body type, exercise is beneficial for everyone. It’s important to understand your abilities and choose activities that best suit you. If you aren’t a runner, try a light walk in your local park to enjoy nature. For a challenge, consider joining a gym. If you prefer social workouts, join a pickleball group or softball league this summer. Remember, all types of physical activity are valid options!
- Fueling your body properly: While exercise is essential for your health, so is nutrition. Start small with changes like using a sugar-free sweetener for your coffee or by going meatless on Mondays to boost your vegetable intake. Figure out what you enjoy and make easy substitutions.
- Get your essential vitamins and minerals: Meeting your body’s nutritional needs can be challenging. While some foods provide nutrients needed to combat stress and anxiety, they may not always be enough. Many people need to incorporate different vitamins and minerals to get their required daily dose. Always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before taking any supplements so they can assess your needs.
Find your inner peace
Mental health is just as important as any other areas of healthcare:
- Consider talking to a mental health specialist: Therapy is more than just a seven-letter word; it’s a tool that is massively helpful for providing stress relief. Having an unbiased third-party be an extra ear can be a huge asset to tackling both day-to-day issues as well as traumatic events. Mental health professionals can also empower you with effective coping strategies to help you navigate challenges and manage stress, which is crucial for your well-being.
- Practice gratitude: The power of gratitude offers both mental and physical benefits. When you practice mindfulness, it restructures your perspective and circumstances, making stressful situations more manageable. Studies find that people who practice gratitude are happier and healthier. Keeping a gratitude journal on hand or discussing what you’re thankful for with your family daily can help alleviate stress.
- Indulge in a little self-care: While the term “self-care” might conjure up images of luxury and overspending, it’s focus is to prioritize yourself. Whether it’s a good Epsom salts bath or enjoying a sweet treat, self-care is about managing chronic stress in ways that work for you. This could mean being creative, taking a break from social media or setting boundaries in relationships, like asking for alone time when you need to recharge. Whether it’s a big gesture or small one, self-care allows for people to take preventative measures towards stress and anxiety.
Other areas to manage
- Good sleep is a game-changer: Never underestimate the value of rest. Sleep is one of the most powerful ways to recharge your body and your brain. Establishing consistent sleep schedule is key. Try to remove distractions and keep screen time in check before bedtime to improve your sleep quality. Discover tips for a better night's sleep from a Medical Mutual wellness expert.
- Laughter lifts you up: Though the saying about it being “the best medicine” can feel a bit overdone, the benefits of laughter speak for themselves. A natural stress-reliever, laughter has both physical and mental advantages. Stream a funny sitcom or attend a live comedy show.
- Step outside and enjoy nature: There’s nothing like fresh air and sunshine to boost your Vitamin D levels and relieve stress! Physical activity in nature is a way to improve your mood and lower stress levels. Even a short time outdoors is extremely beneficial for your overall health. Just remember to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunblock before venturing out.
Stress can be overwhelming, but good health practices can help manage it. Check out some additional ideas on our other blog for more tips to combat stress and anxiety!
Equip yourself to handle stress
As a Medical Mutual member, you have access to a variety of programs and resources to provide the support you need to feel your best. A comprehensive list of mental health resources is available through My Health Plan.
Talk about your mental health with your primary care provider (PCP) or another in-network specialist. Mental health treatment is covered by most Medical Mutual health plans. If you need to find an in-network provider, use our Find a Provider tool or call the Customer Care number on your member ID card.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide
Seek immediate help if you or someone you know is in danger of harming themselves. Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. The Lifeline online chat platform is also available at 988lifeline.org.
If you believe a loved one is in immediate danger of attempting suicide, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room. Mental health organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) can offer advocacy, support, education and public awareness to those affected by mental illness. Call the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-6264, text "helpline" to 62640 or chat online at NAMI.org Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. EST. Teens and young adults can also text “Friend” to 62640 to connect with NAMI team members.