Though everyone has heard this at one point or another, for those at risk for a heart attack, it may be good advice. According to the American Medical Association, heart patients can dramatically lower their chances of having more cardiac problems by reducing stress. According to recent studies, behavioral patterns are important in indicating the outcome of coronary heart disease. Heart patients who show signs of restricted blood flow, or cardiac ischemia, from mental stress are at a greater risk for heart failure. The best we can do clinically is to help people lower their stress through relaxation and simplification.
Physical exercise releases tension in the muscles and greatly reduces anxiety.
Share your stress by talking about it. Asking for feedback or seeking specific advice from friends, family, or a therapist can help you deal with difficulties in your life. Know the limit of what you can do. Losing energy over situations you cannot control is throwing part of your life away. When life becomes difficult or overwhelming, stop and breathe deeply for a few minutes.