One of the truths of this world is that everything changes. The world has patterns that repeat, like the seasons in an ongoing pattern or sequence of change. We in turn develop our own patterns to help make our world a little more predictable and easier.

Change is inevitable but it can also be stressful. Even good changes, such as a promotion, marriage, or new baby can throw our routines off. Some changes are predictable and allow us to adapt and others just come at us out of left field. When you or your clients are feeling or exhibiting signs of being overwhelmed and stressed out by change - revisit tried-and-true stress management techniques for healthy coping.

As we know, life changes are inevitable and normal. We also however know that there is a direct correlation between how we adapt to stressors and our health and a direct connection between heart disease and other major illness and stress. Here are some helpful strategies for handling the stress of change.

Techniques that help!

These simple but important stress management techniques can help you restore a sense of calm and peace of mind. Revisit the stress management techniques you or your clients used in the past. Review which stress management techniques worked well before and take note of which ones didn't work well.  Then put the successful stress management techniques into practice again. The techniques may include:

1. Predict and plan for change whenever possible.

2. Deal with issues or the things you can before they become overwhelming.

3. Re-prioritize work goals and tasks.

4. Make sure to carve out time for physical activity every day.

5. Do not skip meals or resort  to fast food.

6. Delegate household chores to other family members or hire someone to have them completed.

7. Take short breaks to practice relaxed breathing, muscle relaxation, or meditation.

8. Put a positive spin on negative thoughts - what you say to yourself makes a difference.

9. Understand that change is inevitable and do not "should" on thyself.

10. Recognize types of life changes that can lead to stress and what your specific triggers are.

11. Learn the warning signs of stress, such as anxiety, sleep problems, irritability, or mood swings.

12. Nourish a strong support system of family and friends you can turn to in times of stress.

13. Identify and then act on healthy strategies for dealing with stressors that you can control.

14. Strengthen your resilience skills, which help you adapt to and cope well with change and hardship.

15. Be patient and compassionate with yourself. It is not personal, and how well you deal with stress is not about your character.

You already have the skills to manage stress. You've managed stress successfully before and can do it again. Refer back to what works! Remember, during times of extreme stress or crisis, or when self-care measures aren't working, consider getting professional help.