Stress is the body’s way of reacting to a demanding situation—from the simple responsibilities we face every day to major challenges that can arise unexpectedly. Environmental stressors trigger a cascade of internal events that allow the body to respond appropriately. This physiologic reaction is often referred to as a “fight or flight” response and involves a complicated interplay between multiple organ systems. Ultimately, these instantaneous effects can help an individual perform tasks under pressure or achieve impressive physical accomplishments, such as running a marathon or giving birth.

Short-term stress can sometimes be beneficial, but stress that continues without relief can disrupt the body’s equilibrium. Mental Health America lists the following symptoms as potential indicators of stress overload:

• Fatigue.
• Headaches.
• Loss of concentration.
• Difficulty making decisions.
• Inability to control anger.
• Increased use of alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes or drugs.
• Increased or decreased eating.
• Feeling overwhelmed.
• Thinking often about what you need to do.

 The phrase “stress management” can imply stress is inherently bad — something to be minimized or eradicated. While negative life events produce tremendous stress, so do some of the most exciting (new jobs, homes, weddings, parenting, traveling). Stress points to what matters to us. Of course we care. By focusing on what we hold dear (safety, health, comfort and so on), we escape the downward spiral of reactivity and can tend to what matters. Rather than stressing about our stress, we can learn to navigate it more skillfully.

Stress management isn’t just meditation. “Take a deep breath” isn’t for everyone. The Stanford Lifestyle Medicine approach to stress management recognizes the diverse ways we can support ourselves through various stressors in our many seasons of life. You don’t have to become a different person to manage your stress; you can support yourself in a way that fits with who you are.

We think less about “right” and “wrong” ways of managing stress, and more about what is supportive. The answer will be different from moment to moment. Sometimes we need a nap; sometimes we need a walk. Sometimes we need to be with our people; sometimes we need to be alone. Comfort food is nourishing in one context and destructive in another. The same goes with engaging social media, exercise, and any number of behaviors.