Master Your Stress
– Peter G. Hanson, M.D.
Turn Stress into Strength
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Stress Is How Your Body Prepares to Perform
Stress is a physical and emotional reaction. When we face challenges in life, our body and mind both feel it and respond.
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Change (Even Good Change) Creates Growth
Even positive life events like buying a home, welcoming a baby, or starting a new job can create stress.
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The Right Amount of Stress Builds Resilience
“Eustress” sparks motivation, focus, and excitement, like before a big presentation or a first date.
Managing stress isn’t about eliminating it. It’s about learning to use it wisely.
When you master your stress, you strengthen your focus, confidence, and resilience.
How to Use the Digital Mind of Dr. Skinner
Get Personalized Guidance on Stress Management!
Start a conversation with the Digital Mind of Dr. Skinner in your Staff Guidance app.
Click "Start a Conversation..."
Chat with the Digital Mind by voice or by text
Explain Your Question
The more detail you provide, the more personalized guidance you’ll receive
Start with Suggestions
Look for “Ask Dr. Skinner” for suggested ways to start a conversation
Stressing Out?
Myth vs. Fact
Stress is a normal part of life, but you choose how to respond and manage it.
ASK DR. SKINNER:
“How can I channel feelings of stress into productive energy?”
Myth
All stress is negative and bad.
Fact
Some stress can be beneficial and motivating.
Myth
Stress is all in the mind.
Fact
Stress can manifest physically as well as mentally.
Myth
Asking for help with stress means you're weak.
Fact
It takes strength to ask for help.
Myth
Stress affects everyone the same.
Fact
Everyone responds to stress differently!
"Life is ten percent what you experience and ninety percent how you respond to it."
— Dorothy M. Neddermeyer
"The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another."
"Times of stress are also times that are signals for growth, and if we use adversity properly, we can grow through adversity."
"It’s not stress that kills us, it’s our reaction to it."
"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under the trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time."
"Stress is like spice – in the right proportion, it enhances the flavour of a dish. Too little produces a bland, dull meal; too much may choke you."
Daily Habits That Work
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Avoid Stressful Stimuli
It’s OK to take breaks from the news and social media if they’re adding to your stress levels.
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Plan Ahead
Avoiding procrastination can lower deadline-related stress and reduce feeling rushed.
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Breathe
Focused breathing can promote relaxation, ease stress, and calm your mind and body.
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Listen to Relaxing Music
Relaxing music can help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels.
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Get Outside
Even 20 minutes in nature can help relieve stress.
ASK DR. SKINNER