Finding Ways to Cope With Stress

How to avert stress

As the demands of work and home life impact individuals, many may want to find ways to cope with stress.

In a recent Gallup Poll survey of employees, 80 percent said they feel stress on the job; nearly 50 percent expressed a need to learn how to manage stress; and 42 percent felt their co-workers needed help in managing stress.

"Everyone is affected by stress differently," said Andrea Bardack, a licensed clinical social worker and staff member at the USC Center for Work and Family Life.

"Identify what you normally do," Bardack said. "Are there alternative ways to do it?"

Beyond the practical steps that involve better eating habits along with more sleep and exercise, Bardack said it is helpful to keep track of meals. Staying hydrated is also important for stress management, as dehydration can cause loss of focus and fatigue.

"Physical cues get mixed up