Having a chronic health condition, like COPD, can be stressful at times. Stress plays an important role in your body. It helps get your body ready to respond to a dangerous situation. But ongoing stress, like the kind you might experience with COPD, can affect your physical and mental health. Relieving stress and improving your mental health is very important. Sometimes we develop bad habits that make us feel better at first, but are not healthy for our physical or mental health. So how do we relieve stress in a healthy way? There are many different options available. Some therapies are considered “traditional”, such as relaxation, talk therapy, and medications. Other therapies are considered “alternative.” These can include therapies like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and more. Sometimes you can use traditional and alternative therapies at the same time. It is important to check with your health care provider before starting any new therapies. While some may sound safe, they may not be appropriate for everyone.
Let’s learn about some common stress relief options:
- Meditation and relaxation: This type of stress relief focuses on relaxing your mind and blocking out distracting thoughts. You can do this activity on your own, with a counselor, or with tools such as smart phone apps, videos, or audio recordings.
- Doing something you enjoy: When you’re stressed, try doing an activity that you enjoy. This can include options like playing or listening to music, reading a book, gardening, or watching your favorite movie.
- Exercising or doing yoga: Exercise is a powerful stress reliever. When I feel stressed, I will often say to myself “I need to get this frantic energy out!” Often, a quick walk around my neighborhood or on my treadmill makes me feel much better. You don’t have to go on a long walk or do an entire exercise video—sometimes a few minutes of activity is all you need!
- Talking to a friend, family member, or counselor: Share your feelings with a trusted person. If your feelings become overwhelming, be sure to speak to a mental health professional.
- Focusing on your breathing: Just slowing down your breathing can make a huge difference in your stress levels. Try pursed lip breathing:
- Sit and lean forward with your arms resting on a table.
- Breathe in through your nose (as if you are smelling something) for about two seconds.
- Pucker your lips like you are blowing out candles on a birthday cake.
- Breathe out very slowly for 4 to 6 seconds.
- Relax all your muscles, close your eyes, and relax. Repeat the steps if needed.
These are just a few helpful activities, but I am sure you know many more! Share your best tips below. And be sure to check out our Coping with COPD guide for more information on mental health and stress relief.