Stress management encompasses all activities aimed at reducing stress levels in daily life, involving decision-making and proactive actions based on personal judgment. As part of stress management, individuals autonomously select strategies to mitigate stress, prevent its occurrence, and enhance overall health. Stress management entails a process of self-reflection on previous coping mechanisms and acquiring new coping skills, focusing on internal adjustments.

Countermeasures for stress management vary depending on the stage of stress, including addressing stressors directly, altering cognitive perceptions, mitigating emotional responses, addressing physiological reactions, and modifying behaviors. These interventions encompass several specific actions, such as engaging in healthy activities (e.g., taking a walk), hobbies and leisure activities, and social interactions to distract oneself and uplift one’s mood as part of emotional coping strategies. Additionally, techniques such as meditation, muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, autonomic training, and qigong promote calmness and bolster resilience against stress. Cognitive-behavioral approaches using interaction analysis, self-counseling, peer counseling, group counseling, and social skills training facilitate changes in thought patterns and behaviors.

Nursing professionals leverage their knowledge and skills in these areas to assist individuals in effectively managing stress, employing nursing interventions tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.

• Nakano, K. (2005). Introduction to stress management: Learn self-diagnosis and coping methods. Kongo Publishing.
• Niki, T. (2008). Stress science and health. Kyoritsu Shuppan.