OE Stress? We Get It. Here's How To Deal

‘Tis the season. Open enrollment season, that is. And with open enrollment comes stress. Lots of it. We know what you’re going through and we completely empathize. Here are five ways to get through the season.

Take a break.

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It may seem difficult to get away during open enrollment, but that just may be the best thing for you. When you give yourself permission to step away, you give yourself time to breathe, time to practice stress-reducing techniques to help you feel less overwhelmed.

Exercise.

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There’s no doubt about it. Research continues to show that exercise benefits your mind just as much as your body. Even a brisk 20-minute walk, run or swim when you’re stressed can provide an immediate effect that lasts for several hours.

Smile and laugh.

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Your brain is connected with your facial expressions and emotions. When you’re stressed, your face shows it. Smiling and laughing can help relieve some tension and make you feel better.

Express yourself.

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It may sound obvious, but when you’re stressed call a friend, send a text message or write a letter. Express yourself in a healthy way. When you share your concerns or feelings with another person, it helps relieve stress.

Meditate.

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Meditation and mindfulness help the mind and body to relax and focus. Like exercise, you can reap immediate benefits when you meditate. And mindfulness can help you get a new perspective and develop self-compassion. When practicing mindfulness, you release emotions that may cause the body physical stress.