Ways for Men to Conquer the Stress In Their Lives

Men are less likely than women to talk about their feelings or be concerned about the effect stress is having on their health.

While that may not seem like news to many, recent research has confirmed that stress at work is contributing to higher death rates among men with cardiometabolic disease—a group of conditions that includes heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

These findings emphasize the fact that men must address the stress in their work and their lives. Start reducing stress today with these steps.

Notice what’s stressing you out. Take a week and jot down situations you perceive as stressful, including the setting, people, and your reaction. This can help you see where change is needed.

Accept that you can’t control it all. Instead of aiming for perfection, just do your best. When put in perspective, is the situation that is causing you stress as bad as you think?

Develop healthier responses. After that meeting that went south, did you hit the vending machine or tank up at happy hour? While substances may offer immediate relief, they create additional stress long-term. Making healthy food choices, getting enough sleep, exercising, and taking the time for activities you enjoy are better bets for stress management.

Establish tech boundaries. In a 24/7 world, it’s easy to feel like you’re always “on.” While different industries have different expectations around availability, consider not checking email after 6 p.m. or putting the phone in another room during dinner. These practices can help you focus on loved ones and allow you to relax.

Stay connected. Talking with friends and family, and planning pleasurable activities, can help reduce stress. Physicians, therapists, or clergy persons are confidential resources who can offer stress-reduction suggestions, too.

Talk with your boss. Healthy employees are an asset. Have a conversation with your supervisor about specific patterns or responsibilities that are adding to your stress levels. Collaborate to develop an effective plan for making changes.