Tips for Managing Stress from a Clinical Psychologist

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but how we manage it can significantly impact our well-being. As a clinical psychologist, I often share strategies with my clients to help them reduce stress—and these are practices I incorporate into my own life as well. Here are five key tips that can help you regain control and alleviate stress.

1. Resolve or Solve Problems

One of the quickest ways to reduce stress is to resolve or solve the problems you’re facing. A resolution involves making a decision, while a solution creates a plan to address the issue. Both approaches empower you to take control of your situation, giving anxiety a place to go. When you act to resolve or solve a problem, you’re telling your brain, “I’ve got this.” That sense of control is invaluable in reducing stress.

2. Develop a Night Routine

Sleep is a cornerstone of stress management, and a consistent night routine is essential for quality rest. I aim for 8 hours of sleep most nights, and my night routine helps me get there. Here’s how you can create one:

• Start relaxing your body and mind 2-3 hours before bed.
• Relax your mind: Journal, process the day, meditate, or take a quiet walk.
• Relax your body: Stretch, take a shower, drink tea, or use a heated blanket.
• Address any aches and pains to ensure comfort.
• Set the mood: Dim the lights, light candles, lower electronic volumes, and change into comfortable clothes.

By the time you’re in bed, your body and mind will be in a relaxed state, making it easier to fall asleep.

3. Reduce Clutter

Clutter—whether physical, mental, or digital—can be a major source of stress. Here’s how to tackle it:

• Physical clutter: Organize your environment to reduce the chances of losing items and create a visually relaxing space.
• Mental clutter: Address unresolved thoughts and emotions. Find resolutions or solutions to give your mind some breathing room.
• Digital clutter: Close unnecessary tabs on your computer and clean up your digital workspace.

A clear space leads to a clear mind, helping you feel more focused and less anxious.

4. Eat Nutritiously

The way you nourish your body affects how you feel. While I enjoy indulging in sweets and treats occasionally, I prioritize a balanced diet rich in fiber, greens, protein, and fruit. When I focus on nutritious eating, I experience fewer issues like bloating or heartburn, and I feel more comfortable overall. This frees up my mental energy for more important things than worrying about physical discomfort.

5. Move Regularly

Movement is a fantastic stress reliever. I’ve shifted my mindset from “exercising” to “moving,” and it’s been transformative. Rather than pushing through grueling workouts, I focus on what my body feels like doing that day.

• Some days, it’s a slow treadmill walk.
• Other days, I’ll opt for a vigorous elliptical session.
• Sometimes, a walk to the store is enough.

This approach has made me more consistent with physical activity, and as a result, I feel happier, less achy, and more satisfied overall.

These five practices have significantly reduced stress in my life and in the lives of my clients. However, there are countless ways to manage stress, and I’m always eager to learn more.



What are your top five stress management strategies? Let’s share and grow together!