Stress Self-Defense

The exact factors that moderate the effects of chronic stress – and determining if those effects are permanent –requires more research.

However, in the meantime, you can try the following to make you less vulnerable to the mental and physical effects of stress.

1. Rest up.

Chuck the alarm clock and get whatever sleep your body needs, probably about 8-10 hours a night. Sleep appears to keep hormone levels in balance, your reasoning clear and your mood upbeat.

2. Exercise.

Just taking a 10-minute walk a few times a week boosts your immune system. Don’t overdo it though; too much exercise can actually lower immunity.

3. Watch your diet.

Following a diet rich in fish, fruits and vegetables and low in red meat can bolster your immune system. Throw in a little chicken soup with mushrooms as well; studies show that both seem to strengthen your body’s ability to fight illness. Although researchers aren’t clear why chicken soup works, it could offer a psychological boost. And mushrooms appear to increase the production of certain substances (such as white blood cells) that protect us.

4. Turn up the iPod.

According to one study, reporters on deadline who listened to 30 minutes of music boosted their levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), antibodies that help fight infection.

5. Have a little sex, a little wine.

Sex and even hugs also raise IgA levels, as does a glass of wine.

6. Stick to a routine.

One of the tough things about losing a job is that suddenly you have no timetable, no parameters for your day. Keeping a regular schedule of sleep, exercise, job hunting, and even playing with the kids will help keep you and your mood in balance.

7. Don’t beat yourself up.

It’s easy to feel lousy after losing a job or your social life, don’t second-guess what happened. Instead, try listing all your positive attributes and experiences on paper. Think about the opportunities a new job may offer – like the chance to pursue something you’ve always wanted to do.

FROM THE FOG FILES