76 Chapter 4: Stress Management and Sleep Dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts requires a team approach including family members and qualified mental health professionals. Examples of qualified mental health professionals include certified or licensed counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. In addition to seeking help, a thorough physical exam may be necessary to determine if an undiagnosed physical illness is contributing to these issues. Cedarville University (CU) Counseling Services provides a variety of individual and small group therapies aimed at helping students with their emotional and spiritual needs. Although there is a waiting list for appointments, students at risk of self-harm can be seen right away. For more information, or to schedule an appoint, contact CU Counseling Services at: • http://www.cedarville.edu/Offices/Counseling-Services.aspx • counseling@cedarville.edu • (937) 766-7855 • SSC Rm 163 In addition to CU Counseling Services, other resources to consider for help include dorm resident directors (RDs) and resident assistants (RAs), CU faculty/staff, and local church leadership. Effective Ways to Manage Stress Some individuals are able to deal with and manage their stress better than others. Individuals who are able to manage their stress well are less likely to develop stress-related emotional and physiological disorders. Some of the characteristics of individuals with successful stress management include those who view situations and events optimistically, exercise on a regular basis, eat well, receive adequate rest, and have a strong faith. Furthermore, these individuals tend to have an emotional support system in place by forming strong friendships and maintaining ties with family (Johnson & Morris, 2012). Provided below are 10 effective ways for managing stress (Swenson, 1992; Thygerson & Thygerson, 2016; Walters & Byl, 2013): 1. Regular exercise. Participating in regular exercise, even low-intensity exercise, has been shown to substantially reduce stress and anxiety levels. 2. Proper nutrition. Eating a well-balanced diet can help to reduce the risks associated with chronic stress and physiological disorders associated with poor nutrition. 3. Adequate sleep. Tired individuals do not manage stress well. Adequate sleep helps to improve resiliency and reduce stress. 4. Prayer / Meditation on Scripture. Praying regularly helps to lower agitation and loneliness as well as improving morale and the ability to cope. In addition to prayer, meditating on Scripture can help to put temporary circumstances into an eternal perspective. Some pertinent passages to consider include Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 8:18, 26-39; Philippians 4:49; and James 1:2-7.
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