Let’s talk about stress. I already know you’re going to say, “But Deirdre, I don’t stress at all. I’m cool, calm and collected at all times. I’m stable and present every single day.” OK. But did you know that many people stress without being aware of it?

“Often people don’t associate physical manifestations with stress,” says Jeffrey Borenstein, M.D., president & CEO of the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine and chair of the Section of Psychiatry at the Academy.

That means stress is much more common than you thought, and a lot of negative associations come along with it. To make matters worse, 83 percent of people who are under stress are doing absolutely nothing about it.

“It’s common for people to not realize they are stressed out,” Borenstein says. “Often people minimize the stress they are under, the affect it has, and don’t take action.”

Conscious and unconscious stress takes a huge toll on people and can lead to serious problems down the road if not addressed in a timely fashion. In fact, according to WebMD, 9.9 million working days are lost each year due to stress, depression and anxiety.

Before we look at ways to combat stress throughout our day-to-day lives, let’s review some of its physical characteristics. You could be suffering from stress if you have any of the following conditions:

• Poor eating habits
• Low energy
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Clenched jaws
• Chest pain
• Upset stomach
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Dry mouth
• Worrying
• Inability to focus
• Forgetfulness
• Bad decision making

How To Combat Stress Head On

Stress can be caused by be a host of factors, from a work situation to personal issues to environmental factors like changing seasons. Here are some tips for alleviating stress.

Meditate

Yoga and meditation can have a huge impact when it comes to combating stress. Taking a few minutes to clear your mind will help aid in clarity and making sound decisions. In a quiet place (at least once a day), let go and allow your worries to dissipate.

Breathe

A few deep breaths can help control stress. For an added bonus, I love to light a scented candle or smell some essential oils. Essential oils include sweet orange, lavender, peppermint and lemon. Put a few drops on your temples and lightly massage the stress away.

Work Out

Even if you only have 15 minutes to spare for walking around the block, studies have shown an instant boost in mood and focus just by moving your body.

Talk to a Friend

Friends are a vital support system. They can help you think logically about a situation and serve as a confidant when needed. It’s always good to talk to someone about your problems. You’ll find comfort in knowing that you’re not going through a situation alone and that help is always available. Talk to a trusted friend, or co-worker.  Or call a toll-free help line (LINK).

Listen to Music

Listening to music is an excellent way to de-stress the mind. I find that music with no lyrics, like classical music, does the trick best. Being able to focus with a clear mind will work wonders.

Eat Well

If you’re stressed, chances are you’re not eating properly. Under stress, some of us eat more, while others eat less. Be conscious of what you put in your body. There’s nothing worse than adding even more worry by stressing over changes you see in your body image.

Start Reading

“Over the years, doctors, scientists, and researchers have confirmed that reading is a stress-reducing activity that can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. It's been proven to improve people's memories, increase brain power, and even enhance empathic skills. Reading has even been linked to longer life spans."

So pick up a new book at your local bookstore and let the pages engulf you in an exciting adventure.