Managing stress – the simple strategies that work

Understanding your stress

Here's the reality: stress is a normal part of life. Whether it's juggling work deadlines, managing finances, or navigating family responsibilities, we all face moments when things feel overwhelming. The good news? While you can't eliminate stress entirely, you can learn to manage it better and build resilience along the way.

Stress isn't always the enemy. Sometimes it motivates us to meet a deadline or pushes us to achieve something meaningful. This 'good stress' happens when challenges feel manageable and we can see a positive outcome on the horizon.

But when demands consistently outweigh our ability to cope, stress can take a toll. It might show up as sleepless nights, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or that persistent feeling of being on edge. You might notice changes in your behaviour too, like withdrawing from friends, comfort eating, or putting things off until tomorrow.

According to the Australian Psychological Society’s Stress and Wellbeing report¹, personal finances, health and family issues are among the most common stressors for Australians.

Sound familiar? You're not alone.

Taking back control

Here's the thing about stress: some of it you can change, and some you can't. The key is knowing the difference.

For the things you can control, start with problem-solving. Define what's bothering you, then brainstorm possible solutions, weighing up the pros and cons. Then pick one and give it a go - if it doesn't work, that's valuable information too.

For the things you can't control, acceptance is your friend. That’s not the same as giving up – it means redirecting your energy toward what you can influence.

Shifting your mindset

Our thoughts have real power over how stressed we feel. Identify automatic thoughts that are coming up in relation to the stressor. And when your inner voice starts catastrophising or jumping to worst-case scenarios, build of habit of pausing to ask yourself: what's the evidence? What would I tell a friend in this situation? Often, you'll find a more balanced perspective.

Try keeping track of what gives you energy versus what drains it. Maybe it's a walk at lunch, catching up with a friend, or finally tackling that task you've been avoiding. Use this insight to create more balance in your days.

Building your resilience toolkit

Small, consistent actions make a big difference:

• Practice gratitude by noting down a few things you're grateful for each day
• Use breathing and muscle relaxation techniques when you need to reset
• Practice mindfulness - observe, accept, refocus
• Prioritise the basics like quality sleep, regular movement, and nourishing food
• Set boundaries by communicating your needs respectfully
• Focus on progress, not perfection - every small step counts
   

You don't have to do this alone

Sometimes stress becomes too much to handle on your own, and that's completely okay. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Consider talking to your GP, a psychologist, or reaching out to services like Lifeline (13 11 14), or Beyond Blue (1300 224 636). These services are there for a reason – because everyone needs support sometimes.

If you have insurance cover with Aware Super, you also have access to support services including confidential wellbeing appointments, mental health support, and financial advice. Visit aware.com.au/health to learn more about the wellbeing services, or give us a call to find out what's available to you.

Managing stress is a skill you can develop. With the right strategies and support, you can move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling more in control.

¹ Australian Psychological Society (2015); Stress & Wellbeing: How are Australians Are Coping With Life;  https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/ae32e645-a4f0-4f7c-b3ce-dfd83237c281/stress-wellbeing-survey.pdf