Sometimes the way we deal with stress only makes it worse. Some people reach for a cigarette or a drink, while others may isolate themselves from others or become aggressive. We also make stress harder on ourselves when we give ourselves negative messages, like, “I’ll never be able to do this” or “I don’t have enough time for this”. Learning to choose positive behaviors and give ourselves positive messages when we’re under stress can turn things around and make stress more manageable. Use our Stress Behavior Inventory to find new ways to manage your stress.

Click here for the Stress Behavior Inventory (PDF file)
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First published April 5, 2006
Copyright © 2006 Consumer Health Interactive