“Just as we take precautions to avoid contracting flu viruses, we also should take precautions to keep our stress levels in check,” Scheff says. The APA offers the following tips:

• Identify your sources of stress. The first step in managing stress is identifying what events or situations trigger stressful feelings. Make a list of situations that can be emotionally challenging for you, and learn to recognize them when they occur. Ultimately, the goal is to eliminate or reduce those situations that trigger a stress reaction.
• Learn your stress signals. Stress manifests itself in different ways. For some, stress impacts their ability to concentrate, while others feel angry or experience headaches and muscle tension. By being aware of your personal stress signals, you will be in a better position to combat stress.
• Find healthy ways to manage stress. While activities such as smoking, drinking alcohol or overeating may temporarily relieve stress, these are unhealthy behaviors that can have dire consequences. Instead, consider healthy, stress-reducing activities such as meditation, exercising or simply spending time with loved ones.
• Take care of yourself. Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, and engage in regular physical activity. It’s also important to take vacations and otherwise make time for yourself, even if that only equates to engaging in simple activities such as reading a book or listening to music.