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Developing an Individualized Stress Management Program

If you are under a lot of stress, it’s helpful to develop an individualized stress management program for yourself. You are unique, not like any other person in the universe, and you need a program that is created just for you and your specific circumstances.

Where to Go for Help

When you are trying to develop a stress management program, you can begin by asking the experts. Physicians, counselors, and life coaches can give you good ideas for your stress management program.

The most helpful “expert” for developing an individualized stress management program might be a naturopath, since this is their field of expertise. They evaluate you as an entire individual and help you come up with a plan to become healthier…and that includes a stress management program.

There are a lot of places that you can get general information for your stress management program. Magazines, books, videos, and the Internet all have tons of information that you can access.

Another really good place to look for guidance for your stress management program is within yourself. Evaluate what has worked for you in the past and what has not worked. Sometimes we use the same coping skills over and over again because it’s what we know, not because it works. We need to evaluate those skills and get rid of the ones that don’t work, so we can learn new skills.

What to Include

Your stress management program should include:

1. A plan for physical health. Are there foods you need to eat more or less of? What kind of exercise helps you deal with stress? Do you get enough rest? Evaluate your health practices, and decide if there are ways you can improve. 
2. A plan for dealing with strong emotions. Are you okay with having a weepy day? How will you handle it? How do you deal with anger, frustration, and disappointment? If you struggle with emotions, what changes will you make? 
3. Stress management techniques and coping skills. 
4. Things you want to learn that will help you cope with life better, such as time management skills. 
5. Spiritual practices if they are important to you. 
6. Social support. How will you connect with friends and family? Who will you connect with? Are there some people you should draw back from for a short time? 

There may be other things you want to include in your stress management program, such as herbs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements. Some will use aromatherapy, while others will develop better self-care techniques, such as a weekly bubble bath.

The point is to develop a stress management program that works for you. You are unique, and a one-size-fits-all solution won’t work. You need an individualized stress management program.