Appropriate exercise is also very helpful. Walking, swimming, yoga, and tai chi can be relaxing. Take deep breaths every time you feel stress overload coming on. Breathe deeply until you feel calm again. You may also find that a guided meditation tape is the easiest way for you to slide into the positive habit of meditation.
Crystals can also make meditation easier, as well as helping generally in stress.
With amethyst we can remember that we are souls in physical clothing. Chrysocolla also helps to convey this message. Often known as the peace stone, it helps to communicate a feeling of tranquility. This versatile stone can be placed either on the heart chakra or the throat for calming purposes. I have noticed that many people carry hematite as a worry stone, and the smoothness of this crystal makes it very suitable for the purpose.