By Meghan McCarthy and Cait Kearney
In a study by the American Psychological Association, 76% of participants reported they experienced negative health impacts due to stress in the prior month, and 34% said their stress was “completely overwhelming” most days.
Stress can harm memory, mood, and cognition, and cause a variety of other health problems. Greater mental well-being, on the other hand, is connected to better cognitive health and reduced dementia risk.
Luckily, there are a number of ways you can manage your stress and boost your brain health and well-being.
AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH) has identified six key points regarding stress management to help you promote mental wellness in your life:
- You can conquer your stress
- A stable daily schedule promotes calm
- Physical activity can ease stress
- Social ties boost positive feelings
- Stay tuned into your stress level
- Laughter keeps balance in your life
Check out this Mental Wellness Quick Sheet for more practical tips to increasing well-being and reducing stress.