Behaviors to Cope With Stress

How to Minimize the Negative Effects of Stress on Your Health

Coping skills, or stress-coping behaviors, minimize the activation of the stress-reactive areas of the brain. People who incorporate coping skills into their lives have less stressor-induced alteration of their health compared to those who do not.

Just think of the word RELAX to remember the stress-coping behaviors that help reduce the negative effects of stress on physical and mental health:

	Reflection	Participate in spiritual or religious activities. Take time to reflect on the things that add meaning, purpose, and joy to your life.
	Expectations	Be optimistic. See the glass as half full rather than half empty.
	Laughter	Have a sense of humor. Laugh at some of the things you do.
	Acquaintances	Be socially active. Spend time with people you enjoy.
	Exercise	Be physically active. Spend less time watching television or playing computer games. Walk as often as you can.

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