Holistic Approaches to Stress Management: Understanding, Prevention, and Coping Strategies

Abbo Bacia J.

Department of Public Administration Kampala International Uganda

ABSTRACT

This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted aspects of stress management, emphasizing holistic approaches that encompass understanding, prevention, and coping strategies. Stress, a natural response to demanding situations, can manifest in various forms such as acute, chronic, episodic acute, or traumatic stress, each posing unique challenges to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Chronic stress, in particular, is associated with severe health consequences including hypertension, hormonal imbalance, mental health disorders, and immune system suppression. Effective stress management involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, relaxation techniques, physical activity, and organizational strategies. Nutrition and sleep play crucial roles in stress regulation, with a balanced diet stabilizing mood and energy levels and good sleep hygiene enhancing cognitive function and emotional regulation. Coping with stressful situations necessitates adaptive mechanisms, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and seeking social or professional support when needed. Work-related stress and the impact of technology on stress levels are addressed, with strategies outlined to foster a healthier work environment and manage digital stress effectively. Preventive strategies underscore the importance of early recognition of stress signs, integrating stress management techniques into daily routines, and building resilience. By adopting these holistic approaches, individuals can mitigate the adverse effects of stress, enhance their quality of life, and promote better physical and mental health overall.

Keywords: Stress management, Holistic approaches, Understanding stress, Prevention strategies, Coping strategies, Chronic stress, Traumatic stress

CITE AS: Abbo Bacia J. (2024). Holistic Approaches to Stress Management: Understanding, Prevention, and Coping Strategies. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF CURRENT RESEARCH IN HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 3(1):83-87.