5 Ways to Work Through Difficult Times

Many of us experience stress throughout our lifetimes. The burden can become so great that it begins to overpower you and then the feeling of hopelessness can creep in. It is important to find ways to manage stress before it gets to that point.

Many of us experience stress throughout our lifetimes. With the current economic situation, both in agriculture and even personally, it is easy for many individuals to feel stress and overwhelmed. The burden can become so great that it begins to overpower you and then the feeling of hopelessness can creep in. It is important to find ways to manage stress before it gets to that point in your life. Here are some suggestions on how to manage stress and work through a difficult time.

1. Be compassionate to yourself.

Everyone has struggles. No matter what they are, they are valid. Sometimes we find it easy to be compassionate, patient and forgiving towards others, but less so for ourselves. Allow yourself to be all those things to yourself.

2. Practice mindfulness.

Sometimes the stress of what we are dealing with can become overwhelming. Anxiety becomes a heavy burden and almost paralyzing. It is in these times that you need to practice mindfulness. Pause, take a deep breath, and use your senses to connect with your current environment. Spend five to 10 minutes to listen to your surroundings and focus on certain colors or shapes.

3. Write.

When the thoughts and worry are strong, stop and take time to allow yourself to write down all of those thoughts and worries. Once you have done so, set it aside for awhile and do not allow yourself to dwell on those thoughts. Come back to the paper after a period of time when you have had a chance to rest and refocus and then work through your thoughts.

4. Develop your social support.

Many times when you feel stress or are overwhelmed, it is easy to isolate yourself from others. It is in these moments that you need to find a group of individuals that can lift you up. Not only can they help you release some stress though activities and laughter, but they can also remind you that many individuals face the similar struggles.

5. Take care of yourself.

Those that work in agriculture live a life of service. Their work is focused on taking care of their family as well as providing food for many others. It is easy during these times to want to focus on doing as much as you can to work through the difficulties. However, if you don't take time to do things that are separate from the work, you are more likely to experience mental fatigue. Enjoy a hobby, go fishing, listen to music, or do whatever you find helps you relax that is separate from your work. In addition, make sure you get plenty of sleep. A tired mind will actually have more difficulties in functioning and doing tasks as well as handling stress.

Following these five steps can potentially help you through difficult times and help build resilience. Difficulties in life are temporary and many struggles will pass in time. Throughout these times, take care of yourself and maintain a healthy balance in life.

Click here to download the eBook "Your Guide to Mental Health."

Read More about Mental Health & Wellness:

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Stress: Action is Key

Farmers, Ranchers Have Ways to Manage Stress

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Connect With Farmers In-Person On Mental Health

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