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During stressful times, your body produces various chemicals, including cortisol, an immune-suppressing hormone. The more cortisol produced, the weaker your immune cells become and the more susceptible you are to illness.
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Mental stress does more than diminish your sense of well-being. It also can increase your risk for heart disease.
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Knowing the causes of your stress will help you find ways to manage it.Things that cause stress (stressors) can be everyday events, major life changes, or a combination of things. They can be either happy or sad events. Knowing your stressors will help you find ways to manage your stress.
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By understanding what is causing you stress, you may be able to make changes to help you feel more in control.
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Ways to manage stress: Get enough sleep, follow a healthy diet and make time for yourself.
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Focusing the mind helps provide stress relief. Taking 5 to 10 minutes to practice relaxation each day helps you feel more refreshed.
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You are the only person responsible for your thoughts and actions. This simple idea is your most powerful tool for managing stress.
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Meditation allows you to become more awake and more deliberate about your actions. It teaches you how to respond rather than react to situations in your life.
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