National Stress Awareness Month is observed annually in the month of April. It has been observed since April 1992. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of stress management and provides support to individuals experiencing stress.

During this month, organizations and individuals focus on educating the public about the causes, symptoms and effects of stress.

Stress is a natural reaction your body has when changes or challenges occur. It can result in many physical, emotional and behavioral responses. You can’t avoid stress and everyone experiences it from time to time but stress management techniques can help you deal with it.

Physical symptoms of stress may include: exhaustion, aches and pains, headaches, dizziness or shaking, weakened immune system, high blood pressure, anxiety or irritability, digestive problems, depression, chest pain, panic attacks, muscle tension and sadness.

The four A’s of stress management are:

AVOID: Try to avoid stress by planning ahead, rearranging surroundings, and carrying a lighter workload.

ALTER: When stressful situations can’t be avoided, communication, time management and behaviors may need to be altered.

ACCEPT: Many times acceptance is the best way to avoid stress.

ADAPT: Adapting involves changing expectations, which in turn lowers stress levels.

Tips for coping with stress include:

Take care of yourself: Eat healthy, exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.

Avoid drugs and alcohol: Research shows that people exposed to stress are more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs or relapse into a drug addiction.

Discuss your problems: Talk with a friend or a parent.

Recognize when you need more help: Know when to talk to a counselor, social worker or psychologist if things are not getting better.

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the negative impacts of stress. Managing stress is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Stress is unavoidable.

It is important to understand stress and how we can manage it. When your body is in a constant state of high alert because of unrelenting or too many stressors it leads to poor concentration, bad moods, professional burnout and mental and physical problems.

It is critical to recognize what stress and anxiety look like and to learn steps to cope with managing it.

Reading is a great way to help cope with stress, visit your local library today to find your next great read.