It is no secret that men experience stress and anxiety at high rates. In fact, according to an independent survey by The Priory Group, around 77% of men polled reported having suffered from symptoms of anxiety and stress, with the biggest causes being; Work (33%), Finances (31%) and Health (23%).
While this figure is staggering, it is important to remember that there are things that can be done to ease the symptoms of anxiety and stress. Making even small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on your emotional well-being. Here are 10 small but impactful changes, recommended by the NHS, that men can make to ease stress and anxiety:
1. Be active every day:
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise (a brisk walk, for example) can help to improve your mood and increase your energy levels. For men, taking part in team sports can also be a great way to relieve stress, as it gives them the opportunity to socialise and interact with others. Team sports can encourage a sense of camaraderie and provide an outlet for competitive urges, which can help to reduce stress levels.
2. Take control
Recognising you are suffering from anxiety or stress is a great first step, as it means you can take charge of the situation and start to look for ways to ease your symptoms. Once you have acknowledged that you are struggling, it is important to talk to someone about how you are feeling – whether that be a friend, family member, GP or therapist. Talking openly about your anxiety or stress can help to lessen the feelings of isolation and shame that are often associated with these conditions.
3. Be Sociable
Although you may not feel like it, social interactions are an effective way of combating stress. Spending time with friends and loved ones can help to take your mind off of whatever is causing you anxiety or stress and can also provide much-needed support during difficult times. If you are feeling particularly anxious or stressed, simply spending a little time with a close friend or family member can help to ease your symptoms.
4. Have some "me time"
It is important to make time for yourself, even if you have a busy lifestyle. Dedicating some time each day (even if it is just 10-15 minutes) to do something you enjoy can help to reduce stress levels and improve your mood. This could be reading, listening to music, spending time in nature or taking up a new hobby. Remember, it doesn't have to be anything big or time-consuming – it is just important that you make time for activities that make you happy.
5. Challenge yourself
Set some goals, and challenge yourself to achieve them. This could be anything from learning a new skill to taking on a new physical challenge. Having something to focus on and work towards can help to take your mind off of whatever is causing you stress or anxiety. Achieving your goals can also help to boost your self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. Although try not to put too much pressure on yourself, the main thing is that you enjoy the process.
6. Avoid unhealthy habits
Unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or using drugs can all contribute to anxiety and stress. If you are struggling with anxiety or stress, it is important to try and avoid these unhealthy habits. Instead, focus on healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly. These healthy lifestyle choices will not only help to ease your anxiety or stress but will also improve your overall health.
7. Help other people
One of the best ways to combat anxiety and stress is to help others. Doing something kind for someone else can help to take your mind off of your own problems and can also make you feel good about yourself. Helping others can also provide a sense of purpose and can help you to feel more connected to your community. There are many ways you can help others, such as volunteering your time, donating to charity or simply helping a friend or family member in need.
8. Work smarter, not harder
Although it is important to challenge yourself, it is also important to know your limits. Trying to do too much can often lead to more anxiety and stress. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it is important to take a step back and reassess your situation. Prioritise your tasks and make sure you allow yourself enough time to complete them.
9. Try to be positive
It is important to try and see the positive side of things, even when you are feeling anxious or stressed. This may seem difficult, but there are a few things you can do to help you see the positive side of things. Firstly, try to focus on the present moment and appreciate the good things in your life. Secondly, try and find the silver lining in every situation, even if it is something small. Lastly, try to be patient and remind yourself that things will eventually get better.
10. Accept the things you can't change
There are some things in life that you simply can't change, no matter how hard you try. Accepting this fact can be difficult, but it is important to remember that you can't control everything. Trying to change the things you can't, will only lead to more anxiety and stress. Instead, focus on the things you can change and accept the things you can't. This will help you to feel more in control of your life and can also help to reduce stress levels.
Although it can be difficult, there are small changes that men can make in their lives to ease the stress and anxiety they experience. These include focusing on healthy lifestyle choices, setting goals, avoiding unhealthy habits and accepting the things they cannot change. Making even one of these small changes can dramatically improve your emotional well-being. So, don't hesitate to make a change today!
This article was brought to you by the team at Talens Health Support Services. We are a team of professional BACP registered therapists and counsellors who are passionate about helping people improve their mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or stress, we encourage you to reach out to us for help. We offer a wide range of mental health services, including counselling, psychotherapy and life coaching. Visit our website or give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you.
Medical Disclaimer:
THIS BLOG DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE: The contents of this article are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from your doctor or therapist. If you have any concerns about your mental health, you should seek professional medical advice from your doctor. Do not delay seeking medical advice, or treatment for your mental health because of the information on this blog.
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