By sonni57, eHow Member

We all have stressful situations some of us more than others. Sometimes it's long term stress, such as a parent with terminal illness. Then there is stress that's more short term and may only last a day or less. Long term or short, stressful situations can be difficult to handle.

Instruction:

Step 1. To deal with stressful situations you need to have good coping skills. Some people handle stress better than others because they're more stable and their life is in balance. Those who are high strung and out of balance have a tendency to stress out easily, so keeping a healthy lifestyle is a key factor.

Ask yourself what you can do, right now, to remedy the situation. If the answer is nothing then know that there is no point in getting upset or anxious. When a person is anxious they cannot think clearly or be rational and this can result in poor decision making, which creates more stress.

Step 2. Try to pinpoint the cause of the stressful situation. Then analyze it and try to gain understanding as to why it's disturbing you. Are you over reacting? Also, keep in mind, that worry or stress can't resolve it and that you need to stay calm, so that you can use wisdom.

Be realistic and don't make mountains out of molehills. Many people in stressful situations allow emotions to get out of hand. Furthermore, don't allow emotions of others to affect you and only consider the facts at hand.

Step 3. Take yourself out of the stressful situation if possible. Sometimes you can physically remove yourself and other times you have to do it in your mind. If you can't physically leave, change your thoughts to something positive from the past. It's just a matter of replacing a bad thought with a good one.

Exercise is another great way to take your mind off of stressful situations. Choose an activity, sport or exercise you enjoy. This way you change mental focus and are taking positive action to ensure peace.

Step 4. When faced with long term stressful situations such as divorce or death get help. Talk to someone who understands and is supportive. Consider therapy if you're getting depressed and feel as though you can't cope. You may need medication for a short time to get you over the hump.