Stress is an unavoidable part of life. It can drive us to perform better or, if left unchecked, wear us down. Chronic stress, in particular, is harmful—it doesn’t just drain your energy; it can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. So, how do you stay grounded and maintain your composure during prolonged crises when it feels like everything is falling apart?

The Good and Bad Sides of Stress

Not all stress is bad. In fact, short-term stress can actually be beneficial. According to research by Elizabeth Kirby, short bursts of stress can stimulate brain activity and improve mental resilience. Think of it as the brain’s way of staying sharp and ready for challenges.

However, chronic stress—the kind that lingers for weeks or months—takes a toll. It impairs memory by reducing the production of new neurons in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning and retention. Beyond cognitive impacts, chronic stress can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, obesity, and depression.

The key, then, is learning how to manage stress effectively before it becomes chronic.

Finding Balance in the Chaos

While we can't control everything that happens to us, we can control how we respond. Here are ways to stay calm and resilient even in the face of relentless challenges:

Focus on the Positive and Build Self-Worth

In stressful situations, it's easy to fixate on everything that's going wrong. But successful stress management starts with reframing your perspective. Focus on what’s going right, however small it may seem. This doesn’t mean ignoring challenges but choosing not to let them overshadow the good.

People who handle stress well often have a strong sense of self-worth. They don't base their confidence on external approval or events outside their control. Instead, they focus on their goals, values, and the things that truly matter to them.

Practice Gratitude

Gratitude has a powerful effect on the brain. Taking a moment to acknowledge what you’re thankful for—even in the middle of a crisis—helps shift your mindset. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply reflecting on three good things each day can remind you of the positives in your life, offering relief from overwhelming stress.

Step Away and Recharge

Modern life makes it tempting to stay "on" all the time, especially with technology at our fingertips. But disconnecting is essential. Whether it’s turning off your phone, spending time in nature, or pursuing a hobby, creating space for yourself can help you recharge. When you come back to your challenges, you’ll feel more focused and less reactive.

Build and Lean on Your Support Network

No one gets through life alone. Having people you can turn to—whether friends, family, or colleagues—provides emotional support and practical solutions during tough times. Helping others, in turn, strengthens these bonds, creating a safety net you can rely on when stress feels unbearable.

Think Long-Term

When you’re caught up in a stressful moment, it’s easy to lose perspective. Take a step back and remind yourself that this too shall pass. Reflecting on how you’ve overcome challenges in the past can remind you of your resilience. Keeping your eyes on long-term goals helps diminish the immediate weight of current stress.

Why Stress Management Matters

The way we handle stress shapes our mental and physical health, as well as our relationships and overall quality of life. Chronic stress doesn’t just make us feel bad—it changes how our brains function and can lead to burnout or health problems. But with a combination of self-awareness, mindfulness, and support, it’s possible to keep calm even in the toughest times.