If you have stress symptoms, taking steps to manage your stress can have many health benefits. Explore stress management strategies, such as:

Keep a daily routine

Having a daily schedule can help us use our time efficiently and feel more in control. Set time for regular meals, time with family members, exercise, daily chores and other recreational activities. 

Get plenty of sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for both body and mind. Sleep repairs, relaxes and rejuvenates our body and can help reverse the effect of stress.

Good sleep habits (also known as sleep hygiene) include:

· Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends.

· If possible, make your sleeping area quiet, dark, relaxing and at a comfortable temperature.

· Limit your use of electronic devices, such as TVs, computers and smart phones, before sleeping.

· Avoid large meals, caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.

· Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.

Connect with others ​

Keep in touch with family and friends and share your concerns and feelings with people you trust. Connecting with others can lift our mood and help us feel less stressed.

Eat healthy​

What we eat and drink can affect our health. Try to eat a balanced diet and to eat at regular intervals. Drink enough fluids. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables if you can.

Exercise regularly ​

Regular daily exercise can help to reduce stress. This can include walking, as well as more intensive exercise.

Aim to find active ways to manage your stress. Inactive ways to manage stress — such as watching television, surfing the internet or playing video games — may seem relaxing, but they may increase your stress over the long term.

And be sure to get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid tobacco use, excess caffeine and alcohol, and the use of illegal substances.