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Managing stress

Stress is a part of life — but too much stress can take a toll on the mind and body. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help manage stress in the moment and develop coping skills for stressful situations in the future. 

Get help reducing stress


Try our digital self-care apps — Calm and Headspace Care — at no cost to help with stress management and daily wellness.

Learning about stress and your health

Stress can mean more than having a rough day — frequent or prolonged stress can impact your physical and mental health. That’s why it’s important to actively manage stress and get support when you need it. Check out the resources below to learn more. 
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Stress 101: What causes stress?

Stress is your body’s way of keeping you alert, responsive, and out of danger. It’s helpful in short bursts, but prolonged stress can lead to serious health problems. 
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7 ways stress affects your body

The effects of stress can range from physical and emotional symptoms to hormonal imbalances and more. Fortunately, there are simple self-care tools to help you keep your stress in check.
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The signs and symptoms of stress

Chronic headaches, physical tension, and even changes in your behavior and mood — these things could be your body telling you your stress level is too high. 
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Understanding stress and how to manage it

A Kaiser Permanente psychiatrist shares advice for managing stress — from recognizing triggers in your daily life to using good mental health practices to deal with stressful situations.

Tools and resources for coping with stress

You’re not alone when it comes to managing stress. From group health classes to individual coaching services, you can choose from a wide range of resources and support.*
Wellness Coaching by Phone

Get one-on-one support by phone with a wellness coach.

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Health classes and support groups

Join one of our support groups or health education classes.*

Find classes and support groups near you
Healthy lifestyle programs

Participate in personalized online programs for your health goals. 

Learn more about healthy lifestyle programs
Interactive mental health guidance

Learn when your feelings may be a sign of something more serious.

Watch gamers discuss mental health in these videos 

5 ways to cope when things feel out of control

We all feel overwhelmed by stress from time to time. Paying more attention to your feelings and your responses to difficult situations can help you keep those moments in check.

How to manage and relieve stress

Learn to navigate stressful situations mindfully and build healthy coping skills for life's ups and downs. Check out our top articles and videos featuring successful stress relief strategies.

Related health topics

Getting help managing stress 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of stress, talk to your doctor. They can help you find support for stress-related issues you’re facing, and connect you to resources to help manage stress before it becomes a serious health concern. 

Check out these interactive resources for stress management, self-care, and connections for support. 

  • Find your words — A website designed to make it easier to open up about mental health and ask for help if you need it.
  • Stress less guide — A mini-workbook to identify harmful stress in your life and create healthy behaviors to help you feel better. 

Footnotes

*Classes vary by location. Some members may have to pay a fee for certain classes.


 

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