There are a variety of factors which contribute to high blood pressure – smoking, being overweight, lack of physical activity and maintaining a diet high in sodium among them. But one of the major culprits is stress.

As uncontrolled high blood pressure can have destructive effects on your health, and lead to conditions like stroke and heart disease, it’s important that you keep track of your numbers and curb your risk factors.

Here are some tips that will help you gain control over stress during this challenging time:

1. Know Your Limitations. It helps to prioritize. Determine which activities must get done now and which ones can wait. And don’t be afraid to decline new requests that come your way if you’re too overwhelmed.

2. Let go and focus. There are some things in life that you can’t control. The trick is in realizing the ones you can, and to devote your focus strictly on them.

3. Stay fit. You should take some time out for exercise – maybe for 10 minutes – instead of vegetating in front of the TV for the rest of the night. Why? Because even moderate amounts of exercise release mood-enhancing endorphins, which help relieve stress. A healthy diet, a full night’s sleep and avoidance of too much alcohol or caffeine can also strengthen your defenses against stress.

4. Find your joy. Try to indulge in activities you enjoy such as a hobby that's easy to perform at home.

6. Talk to a good listener. You can’t underestimate the power of a good listener if you’ve had a bad day or you’re feeling overwhelmed, a call to your closest friends and loved ones can help you face your next challenge with a renewed sense of strength and support.

Your Watson Clinic family medicine physician can help you keep your stress level in check.  Call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment with one of our more than 50 internal and family medicine specialists today.