Ask the Patient Leaders: Managing Stress Levels

Stress can be a common trigger for chronic hives. Unfortunately, it can also be a common part of life in general. Knowing that stress can often be unavoidable, we wanted to hear from our patient leaders about what they do when stress hits.

We asked our patient leaders: How do you manage your stress levels?

Having a plan in place before a problem arises can often make a stressful situation more manageable. Is stress a trigger for your chronic hives? Have you tried any of their ideas below?

How do you manage your stress levels?

Reply from Ambre

I handle it in such a unique way. I won’t say I don’t have stress, I personally chose not to let the stress affect me in a negative way. I work to find a solution to whatever is stressing me out, and try to overcome it.

I’ve found if I dwell too much on whatever is stressing me out, I can’t work past it, and it causes further issues.

Reply from Christy

Stress is something that we all deal with. No one goes through life without having struggles or difficulties, all of which lead to stress. I myself have battled with depression and anxiety since I was a teenager, so managing my stress is very important and one of my top priorities. I’m very big in to self care and and employ many practices to deal with my stress.

My biggest stressbuster is using my creativity. I like activities that are hands on and challenge my brain to engage in different ways. I particularly enjoy working on my dollhouse—designing and building furniture, decorating, and adding finishes to each room. I also enjoy other crafty things like sewing, calligraphy, jewelry making, and painting.

Reply from CJ

I manage my stress levels by resting, reading or watching a show or a video. I have a huge love for 80’s and 90’s sitcoms and movies.

Reply from Andressa

Sometimes I go for a walk, fresh air, in a peaceful environment with a lot of trees. The breeze and trees are having a calming effect on my stress levels. Other thing is swimming. That helps too. And if the weather is bad, I love to go for a drive or just listen to music or watch a crazy movie or tv series.

Doing things to keep my mind away from unpleasant situations. It’s not always the easiest thing to do, but I need to choose my battles.

Share your story

Do you have any tips for managing stress? Share with us! Join the conversation in the comments below, get talking in our forums, or share your own story here.