As April marches on as National Stress Awareness Month, Arizonans are being reminded about the significance of keeping stress levels under control to maintain a sound mind and body. Experts at the National Institute of Health stress the importance of resilience to combat the potentially debilitating effects of pressure and anxiety.

To actively manage stress, the NIH suggests individuals should regularly check in with themselves as part of their personal healthcare routine. Stress often manifests physically by causing fatigue, tension, and a loss of appetite, highlighting the importance to practically engage in resilience-building tactics. Necessary as it might be, it's never easy to remember to just take a break during the grind of the day-to-day – but it's crucial to lessen the toll on both your mental and physical health.

Building a reliable network of friends and family, along with prioritizing one's physical health by moving more and eating a balanced diet, are foundational steps recommended by health experts. Per advice from ComPsych Guidance Resources, one should not underestimate the power of staying connected. Loneliness can be as harmful as any physical ailment to individuals and the collective well-being of communities.

In urgent situations, 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, offers 24/7 access to confidential counselors ready to assist those to quickly seek help during mental or substance-related crises. It's essential to remember that reaching out early and often can significantly reduce the negative spiral associated with mental health emergencies.

Physical health, another key pillar of stress management, demands attention too. Being active not only supports bodily functions but also contributes to a healthier brain. Moreover, curbing alcohol intake "can help you feel better mentally and physically," as noted by health authorities. A balanced diet, complemented by a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, is the staple recommendation for sustaining vitality and warding off the adverse effects of stress.