Got stress? Try these 3 ways to manage it.

Everyone feels stressed sometimes — it’s part of life. Finding ways to deal with stress can help you prevent health problems and feel better.

Planning your time and doing things to take care of yourself can help you handle ongoing stress in your life.

Plan your time. Write a to-do list — and be realistic about how long each task will take. Do the most important thing first.

Get active. Physical activity can help you manage stress and improve your mood. Be sure to do at least 10 minutes of activity at a time.

Relax your muscles. Tense muscles can cause problems like headaches or back pain. Try deep breathing or taking a hot shower to help you relax.

Tip:

If your stress doesn't go away or gets worse, get help from a mental health professional. Many people need help dealing with stress — it’s nothing to be ashamed of!

Get more ideas for managing stress.