HealthyLife Articles

Category: Success Over Stress

Ways To Cope With People You Don’t Like -Especially When You Have To

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Can’t stand your in-laws? Work with someone you despise? People are often forced to deal with others they dislike either in a family- or work-related situation. A University of Missouri-Columbia communication professor looked at what people will do to distance themselves from those they dislike.

* Interact with the person only in a group setting.

* Avoid asking the other person questions.

* Treat the other person as eccentric in some way and merely tolerate his or her behavior.

* Fail to acknowledge the other person’s presence.

* Actively reject a person from a conversation.

* Avoid jokes and light-hearted conversation.

* Speed up interactions and get it over with as quickly as possible.

Successful work and social life depends on our ability to maintain relationships, even with people who dislike each other, said Jon Hess, whose study appears in Human Communication Research.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
10 Foods That Reduce Stress

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

When life gets stressful, it’s natural to reach for “comfort foods” high in fat and calories. Macaroni and cheese, fried foods, and sugary desserts are often appealing when we feel anxious or overwhelmed.

Unfortunately, these foods are probably doing more harm than good. They can make you feel sluggish and cause a crash in blood sugar levels, which can make you feel exhausted and shaky. They also don’t provide you with nutrition you need to be at your best.

Instead of eating comfort foods, eat foods that can replenish vital nutrients in the body. This can help you feel more focused, calm and ready to tackle what life brings you.

*Green tea (Antioxidants):Green tea’s compounds can prevent cell damage, and a chemical called theanine helps you relax.

*Bananas (Potassium & minerals):B vitamins, magnesium, and other nutrients help reduce heart disease and can provide a calming effect.

*Spinach & broccoli (Magnesium & minerals):Green leafy vegetables and cruciferous vegetables are rich in folate and magnesium, which help the brain release calming signals.

*Salmon (Choline & healthy fats):Choline is a special nutrient that helps with brain function. Its healthy omega-3 fats also keep you focused.

*Blueberries (Antioxidants):The vitamins in blueberries help your body fight off stress and boost your immune system.

*Almonds & nuts (Magnesium & healthy fats):The magnesium and healthy fats in nuts help the brain function better, and the zinc found in most nuts can calm your nerves.

*Chocolate (Magnesium):Dark chocolate in small amounts can help lower blood pressure and give you a feeling of happiness and calm.

*Oranges (Antioxidants and vitamin C):Vitamin C has been shown to reduce stress hormones and may lower blood pressure. Citrus fruits also contain healthy antioxidants.

*Milk & yogurt (Probiotics, vitamin D):The probiotics in yogurt can calm a stressed tummy, and the vitamin D in fortified dairy helps fight anxiety and depression.

*Avocados (Healthy fats and vitamins):The fat in avocado is heart-healthy and can help steady blood sugar levels. Vitamins B, C and E help the body cope with stress and anxiety.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Enjoy Every Moment

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

The idea of enjoying each moment may be good for your health, say scientists at NIH. Yes, but how? The idea is called mindfulness. This ancient practice is about being completely aware of what’s happening in the present.

Becoming more mindful-instead of going through life on autopilot-requires commitment and practice:

*Take some deep breaths.Breathe in through your nose to a count of 4, hold for 1 second, exhale through the mouth to a count of 5. Repeat often.

*Enjoy a stroll.Notice your breath and the sights and sounds around you. As thoughts and worries enter your mind, note them but then return to the present.

*Practice mindful eating.Be aware of taste, textures, and flavors in each bite. Listen to your body when you are hungry and full.

*Find mindfulness resources.Yoga and meditation classes, mindfulness-based stress reduction programs, and books are helpful.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Mind Over Matter

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

The average person has over 40,000 thoughts roaming through his or her mind on any given day, perhaps even more. As impressive as that might sound, there’s a catch.

About 80% of these thoughts are repeats from the previous day, week, month or even year. Here is another catch. Most of these repeated thoughts are perceptions, attitudes, beliefs and opinions about our personal day-to-day situations or interactions with other people, and the majority of these thoughts are stress-related-unresolved issues of either anger or fear.

Scientists who study human thinking processes-particularly, intentions such as prayer and various forms of healing-say that our thoughts and feelings are actually a form of vibrant energy. In other words, the mind is a limitless bank of conscious energy, which uses the brain as its primary organ of choice, says Brian Luke Seaward, PhD, author of Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart.

With most thoughts being repeats from a previous page in the book of our lives, it appears that, for the most part, the average person’s energy is poorly spent on taking one step forward and two steps back.

Given the possibility that our thoughts and feelings are indeed a form of energy, the question begs to be asked, “How and where do you choose to spend your energy?”

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
What Does Ptsd Look Like?

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

You may have heard of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, which happens when someone experiences a traumatic event. Many Veterans of the military, soldiers, prisoners of war, and victims of war experience PTSD. But, even those not involved with the military or war can experience PTSD. It can also be caused by:

* Rape, abuse, violent crimes or domestic violence

* Car accidents

* Natural disasters, such as a fire, earthquake or tornado

* Terrorist attacks

* Bullying

* A life-threatening illness, such as cancer

* Loss of a loved one

* Working in dangerous situations, which may include police officers or firefighters

PTSD may happen right after the traumatic event, or it can appear months or years later. Symptoms may include:

* Feeling angry or becoming violent

* Nightmares, flashbacks and/or hallucinations

* Forgetting parts of the traumatic event

* Feeling anxious or jumpy

* Sleep problems

* Avoiding people, places or things that remind the person of the traumatic event

People who have PTSD are often depressed. In some cases, PTSD can lead to abuse of drugs or alcohol. It’s important to see a doctor if you think you may have PTSD. Proper treatment can help a person manage their symptoms. Though PTSD cannot be cured, many people can feel better and lead happier, more productive lives with help from their health care team.

Kids & PTSD

Children can experience PTSD after a traumatic event, just like adults. But, the symptoms may be different than those seen in adults. A child with PTSD may:

* Act confused, agitated, afraid, helpless or angry

* Block the event by avoiding people and places that remind them of the event

* Act depressed, withdrawn or detached from others

* Act out or talk about scary events, especially at playtime

* Become violent and/or prone to extreme temper tantrums

* Be unable to talk

* Be afraid to be left alone

* Have frequent nightmares

If your child has experienced a traumatic event, it’s important to get them medical help as soon as possible. With prompt treatment that usually includes therapy, many children can heal from PTSD and go on to live normal lives.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
3 Key Facts About Stress

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

With demanding jobs, caring for family, and worries about everyday events, many people feel stressed on a daily basis. Here are some things to remember:

1.You can’t avoid all stress, all the time.Although we’d like to live stress-free lives, it’s normal to deal with stress from time to time. Even the most relaxed person will likely deal with stress sometimes, and our bodies are equipped to deal with small amounts of it. Rather than worry about stress, learn how to cope with it when it does arise.

2.Stress doesn’t have to be a bad thing.A small amount of stress can help you be at your best, such as before a job interview or a speech. And, stress can help you out of dangerous situations. Adrenaline kicks in to help you survive in situations where you may need to flee. Your pulse speeds up, your brain kicks into high gear, and your muscles are ready to perform. This is known as the “fight or flight” response, and it can save your life.

3.When you’re stressed all the time, your health may suffer.Though some stress is part of life, feeling stressed too often can take its toll. If you’re dealing with high levels of stress every day, or the source of stress doesn’t go away, this may become “chronic” stress. Chronic stress puts you at a higher risk of health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, immune system problems, and more.

Learn how to manage stress

Look into these healthy ways to manage stress in your life:

* Make time for exercise. Just 30 minutes a day of walking has been shown to improve mood and help people cope with stress.

* Recognize when you’re feeling stressed, and take action. If you feel stress, take a walk, try deep breathing exercises, or call a trusted family member or friend.

* Be open with your doctor. If stress is causing sleep problems, substance abuse issues, depression, anxiety, or other issues, tell your doctor. There are treatments available that can help you feel better.

* Step out of your comfort zone. Have never taken a yoga or tai chi class? A relaxing activity like this could be just what you need to cope with stress.

Source: National Institute of Mental Health

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Forget The ‘Perfect’ Holiday

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Are the holidays stressful because you want them to be perfect? Let go of the perfection goal with these tips:

* Get real with yourself. If you burn the food or the tree turns brown, accept it as part of life. No holiday party is going to be perfect, and that’s okay.

* Look ahead. Many people dread the holiday season. They feel pressured to have perfect parties and gifts. But, it’s just a few weeks out of the year. If something doesn’t go perfectly, remember that it will pass. Focus on the things that have gone right today.

* Don’t compare. Avoid social media if it makes you feel bad about yourself. You don’t have to have the biggest centerpiece to have a happy holiday.

* Give yourself permission to relax. You don’t have to do everything for everyone. You’re only one person. Find time for your own needs. This can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. Take a walk, a warm bath, a yoga class or sit and read a favorite book or magazine. Some time for you will help you feel less stressed and more relaxed.

Source: American Psychological Association

Interesting Facts – Toys for girls and boys

572: The number of locations in the U.S. that primarily produced dolls, toys and games in 2015. This is an increase of 12 locations from 2014 (560). These locations employed 6,394 people, an increase of 179 employees from 2014 (6,215). California had the most, with 90 establishments.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Overcome Perfectionism

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

“Anything worth doing is worth doing well.”

“Practice makes perfect.”

“Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.”

“Failure is not an option.”

In today’s perfection-obsessed culture, these are the maxims we live by. Yet the damage they cause can be stifling.

Perfectionism, for some people, is just a preference for order, or a drive to be the best they can be, but it is a choice, says Ann W. Smith, author of Overcoming Perfectionism: Finding the Key to Balance & Self-Acceptance and a relationship expert.

“I see two types of perfectionists. The overt perfectionist is easy to see, they are orderly, organized and a little uptight. They may be critical of others and hard to please. Some overt perfectionists are focused on social standards and how others should be,” says Smith.

“The covert perfectionist does not appear perfect in many areas of life but has a mental committee of critics who pressure them to be better; very self-critical and tends to make comparisons to others and does not measure up. They are especially challenged by relationships where they do not feel adequate or good enough. Coverts tend to be more self-oriented, concerned about their own performance and less about others.”

Perfectionism has been linked to anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide, lower relationship satisfaction, and fear of intimacy.

Smith outlines how the pattern can be changed: “I see it as a 3-stage process. First they need to see and evaluate the pitfalls of it and how it began. If it is not a problem, it doesn’t need to change. If it is causing problems or is not a reflection of your values, it is important to make changes. Second is what I call ‘Becoming Me’ where a perfectionist looks closely at who they really are. It is important to be real and slowly practice letting others see who you are. The third step is to let go of expectations and forgive yourself for past mistakes. It is a time to begin accepting yourself and others as is.”

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
When Bad Things Happen

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Trauma can affect both your body and your mind. A traumatic event might be a personal tragedy such as being in a car crash or losing a loved one. It could be a public disaster such as a flood or shooting.

Just seeing or hearing about devastating events such as a typhoon in the Philippines or a flood in New Orleans can feel distressing, even if you aren’t personally involved, according to NIH in Health.

We all respond to crises in different ways. It’s common to feel sad, vulnerable, or anxious. But if you continue to feel afraid and upset weeks or months later, consider talking with your doctor. You may have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. These conditions can affect people of all ages.

Children are especially sensitive to violent events or disasters. They may feel intensely hurt or frightened and find it hard to recover-or even talk about. Like adults, kids need emotional support from loved ones. They may also need medical care and counseling.

For more help, you can learn coping skills atwww.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/coping-with-traumatic-events/index.shtml.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
4 Reasons You Feel Stressed All The Time

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Stress is a part of life. Some stress can be good for you, because it can help you focus and do your best. But, when stress lasts a long time, it can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Maybe you’ve tried to “just relax” with no luck. Perhaps you’ve tried to cut things out of your schedule, but you’re still overwhelmed. Stress can be more complex than we realize. If you feel stressed all the time, consider these possible causes:

1.You need more support.It can be hard to take on life without someone to talk to. Reach out to family members or friends. Tell them how you’re feeling and ask for guidance. A listening ear can be valuable in times of stress. Don’t try to go it alone.

2.Your health isn’t a priority.You deserve to take good care of yourself physically. And, healthy changes can help you feel better mentally. Try to make one simple healthy change in your life, starting today. Maybe it’s taking a 10-minute walk each day. Exercise releases feel-good brain chemicals that may help you cope with stress.

3.Negative thoughts have taken over.It’s easy to let negative words from others, or even ourselves, come to mind too often. Make a point to look at stressful situations as an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t try to be perfect at everything. You’re not a failure if you make a mistake. Tell yourself that difficult circumstances have a way of working out.

4.You’re not sleeping enough.If you get better sleep, you’ll be able to handle stress better, too. Go to bed at a regular time each night, striving for at least 7-8 hours of sleep. Avoid big meals or intense exercise immediately before bedtime. If you tend to lie in bed and worry, get a journal and keep it nearby. Write down your concerns before bedtime and then try to put them out of your mind until tomorrow. Try cutting back on caffeine. This can relieve anxiety and help you sleep better.

If you continue to feel overwhelmed, are feeling hopeless or are having trouble getting through your daily routine, talk to your doctor or get medical help.

Source: American Psychological Association

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026