It’s fair to say that after a tough day at work, the vast majority of us will get home and crack open a beer or a bottle of wine. For a huge portion of us Brits, it’s a go-to.
However, that’s not exactly the healthiest coping mechanism for stress, is it?
In fact, it can become hugely problematic with many alcohol rehab UK centres seeing people become addicted as a result of work driving stress levels and alcohol consumption.
There are healthier coping mechanisms to booze out there though and starting to utilise one can make a huge difference in your life. So, if you’re used to picking up a wine glass after work but fancy a change, here are five healthier alternatives to cope with your stress…
Prioritise Physical Activity
Naturally, one of the most effective methods of dealing with work stress is heading to the gym, going for a run or joining a class after work.
Exercise has a profound effect on our mental wellbeing, with the release of endorphins helping to reduce stress and anxiety. What’s more, you can even incorporate it into your day to reduce stress throughout the day, for example taking part in a lunchtime run or yoga class, revitalising you for the afternoon and keeping stress levels at a manageable level.
Practise Mindfulness and Meditation
Continuing slightly along a yoga theme, mindfulness and meditation is so powerful in managing stress and can really allow us to focus on the present and not dwell on work related anxieties.
Mindfulness exercises like deep breathing exercises can calm the mind and help stay in the moment, while meditation on the other hand can allow you to take on a more balanced mindset, which can be instrumental in coping with work stress.
Set Boundaries and Manage Your Time
Time management around work is so easy to lose control of, ending in the stresses of work spilling into our home life.
A good way to combat this is to establish specific work hours and stick to them. Try to avoid picking up your laptop, phone or even thinking about work outside of that time and try to concentrate on activities that provide you with relaxation and joy.
Within the workspace time management can also be useful, prioritising work into manageable chunks and reducing the chances of feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Seek Social Support
We are social beings as humans, so connecting with others is so important for our wellbeing. If things are getting on top of you, reach out and speak to colleagues, friends or even the likes of support groups.
They say a problem shared is a problem halved and that’s certainly the case. Often, simply knowing someone else understands can really release that burden and provide comfort to you.
Cultivate a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Finally, achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for managing work-related stress. While it’s important to be dedicated to your job, it’s equally important to make time for activities and hobbies that bring you joy and fulfilment.
Pursuing interests outside of work can provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of the office and help you maintain a well-rounded life. Whether it’s spending time with family, engaging in a creative hobby, or simply enjoying some quiet time alone, prioritising your personal life is crucial for long-term well-being. Remember, work is just one aspect of your life, and maintaining balance is key to avoiding burnout.
