Volume 8 • 2021 • Issue 4

CONTINUED Tools for Stress Reduction and Resiliency • Healthy Workplace Series • The following article is adapted and reprinted with permission from theMorneau Shepell website www.workhealthlife.com Smartphones, digital pedometers, and a multitude of applications (apps) that can help bust through stress, build resiliency, and keep us mentally healthy are readily available. Which ones rise to the top? Below are a few useful tools for stress reduction and resiliency. Nutrition and fitness Poor nutritionmay play a role in increasedmental health problems that have emerged over the past 50 years. According to the Feeding Minds study, increases in schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit disorder could be linked to changing food consumption patterns. On the positive side, exercise has long been thought to enhance mental fitness—but we could all use a little motivation, both to get moving and eat healthier foods. Interested in making a change? Setting goals and tracking success have been shown to be key motivators in achieving better outcomes. Today’s technology makes it easy to track everything from calories, fibre and sodium consumption to steps, heart rate and more. Consider investing in a wireless activity tracker and a nutrition app. Wireless activity trackers are considered the modern pedometers of today—you can download the accompanying app and have your real-time data sync right to your mobile device. A couple to try are Fitbit and MyFitnessPal. Stress reduction Simple stress reduction techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, have been used for decades to help people relax and clear their minds. Today, these proven techniques are at your fingertips—through apps available directly on your mobile device. Feeling stressed? Having apps on hand when you need them could help you battle stress before you become overwhelmed. How can your favourite digital device transform into a quick and convenient anti-stress remedy? Online games. Redirect your focus away from the source of stress and try to concentrate on a short game that engages your mind and body, thus helping to reduce your stress while squeezing in a fun workout. Online support groups. With countless online groups composed of people working through personal struggles and learning new coping mechanisms, sharing with those who have faced similar issues is just a click away. Online stress management programs. For convenience, privacy and a more structured digital experience, try Shepell’s Stress Coach Connects. Assess your level of stress, understand your triggers and make meaningful behavioural changes to better manage it, through proven clinical stress management techniques. TheMembers’AssistanceProgram (MAP) is sponsoredbyCDSPI and provides confidential short-term counselling support, professional guidance, resources and referrals for dentists, dental office staffand immediate familymembers.MAP services are complimentary and accessible24/7/365. ContactMAPat 1.844.578.4040or visit theirwebsite at workhealthlife.com. MAP is operatedbyShepell, the largestCanadian-basedEmployee andFamilyAssistanceprovider in the country.Available services vary by region.UseofMAPservices is completely confidential within the limits of the law. S upporting Y our P ractice 41 Issue 4 | 2021 |