Everyone has a time when there is just too much to do, or there might be a particular situation that causes anxiety. Work, relationships, finances, special events, and family can all be contributors, as well as other uncontrollable factors such as traffic jams, weather, or a just a bit of bad luck. Whatever it is that causes you stress, you are not alone.

There are tactics that can help you handle your stress. Failing to manage stress can have a substantially negative impact on your brain, overall health, and aging processes. Handling and reducing your stress levels will help you preserve precious neurons in your brain that you have worked so hard to accumulate over your lifetime.

To reduce your stress, try writing down a list of any negative or anxious thoughts you have throughout the day. Make sure you are in a low-stress environment when you are making your list so that you can be honest and open with yourself. Then take a minute to analyze these thoughts to determine if they are rational and within your control. If they are within your control, find ways to work through or overcome these problems. It may take time and energy, but have confidence in yourself as an intelligent person capable of overcoming many obstacles. You may need to formulate a plan to overcome these obstacles, and if so, focus on what it is you want to accomplish and the best way to do so. If they are out of your control, know you have done your best and seek support from friends, family members, or co-workers in eliminating the problem.

Next, regain your focus on the positive by writing down a list of your constructive thoughts throughout the day. Your positive thoughts can be big or small, new or old, personal or work related. These positive thoughts will help your body release the neurotransmitter called serotonin, which is good for both your brain and your mood.

Treat yourself well while you are writing down your list of positive thoughts for the day by doing so in a comfortable environment, maybe with your favorite tea or snack, and enjoying the process of positive thinking. Reducing your stress levels and focusing on the positive will help you preserve and support the neuronal connections in your brain that are crucial for thinking, analyzing, and remembering important details, as well as generating a positive effect on your overall health and well-being.