5 things you can do right now to improve your stress levels
1. Learn about about stress
Watch these 2 videos to learn more about stress and how to manage it:
2. Are you getting exercising and moving regularly?
Regular exercise can help release built up stress and tension. This release can prevent prolonged stress having a negative impact on your body. For the most benefit, exercise should be performed at least 3 x per week. If you're not used to exercising the key is to start slowly and build up. The long term goal should be to meet the NZ Ministry of Health's Guidelines for Exercise and Health.
If you would like some advice regarding exercise, you can book a consultation with our director in person in Wellington or via Zoom Video meeting NZ-wide.
3. Do you practice Mindfulness?
Information about Mindfulness and its benefits have become more prominent nowadays. There are different types of Mindfulness and Mindfulness training. Sometimes it can be as simple as being more aware/present whilst taking a walk through nature. For example, this video provides an example of Mindfulness Watching or this link provides you with some tips on Mindfulness Meditation. If you've never tried it, give it a go - what have you got to lose?
4. Talk to a professional
If you would like some 1:1 help or direction you could try talking to a psychologist or a councilor. You can find a psychologist in your area here or a councilor here. Some psychologist and councilors also offer online video consults too.
5. If you would like to try and help yourself but are unsure on where to start, NZ experts in Mental Health have developed some more great resources - see Additional Resources below. Alternatively
Additional Resources
Free online tools to help with stress via 'Small Steps'
Tips for managing stress from 'Health Navigator NZ'
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
Website (National office): www.mentalhealth.org.nz
E-mail: info@mentalhealth.org.nz
Lifeline
Freephone (24/7 Helpline): 0800 LIFELINE (0800 543 354)
Fee text: HELP (4357)
E-mail: info@lifeline.co.nz
Website: www.lifeline.org.nz