As much as we want to be "superman" or "superwoman," we can only do so much. Shed the urge to "do it all" - especially during stressful times. If you have trouble coping with all the demands, here are some tips.

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A healthy lifestyle can help you deal with and even avoid stress.

Healthy habits include:

• Getting plenty of sleep
  
  
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
  
  
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
  
  
• Exercising or getting other regular physical activity
  
  
• Meditation, muscle relaxation, massages, and breathing exercises
  
  
• Listening to music
  
  
• Participating in things you enjoy, like hobbies
  
  
• Enjoying fresh air
  
  

When you face a stressful situation, these coping strategies may help:

• Deal with one thing at a time - don't try to control every aspect of the situation.
  
  
• Go easy on criticism - focus on solving the problem (if you can), not placing blame.
  
  
• Be flexible - deal with only the items you can change or control, and let go of what you can't.
  
  
• Share your feelings - a strong system of social support can help; avoiding your feelings will not.
  
  

Find some coping skills that work for you and practice them repeatedly. Soon they'll become habit, and you'll find yourself better able to deal with chronic stress and day-to-day aggravations.