Ask The Expert: How to De-Stress When You’re Single

Q: I often read about the stress of family - partners, children, etc. My situation is different - single, never married, living alone - yet my stress is enormous... and exhausting. How does one destress when, supposedly, one doesn't have the "normal" stressors that having a family can elicit? - OnlyLo

A: Stress as a single person is much more common than you think. One does not have to be married or have a family to experience significant stress - single people have stressors, too.

Here are some tips for de-stressing as a single person:

1. Find the Source: Identify the things that are causing you stress. Once you know what your stressors are, you can start to develop strategies for coping with them. Is it loneliness? Your ex? Your bills? Once you know what’s bothering you, you can start to deal with it.

2. You come first: Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. These things can help to reduce stress and boost your mood. Remember, you deserve to be healthy and whole, regardless of relationship status.

3. Find your tribe: Reach out to your friends, and hold tight to those who share your passions and values. Having a strong support system will help you cope with stress. Being single doesn’t mean being alone.

4. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with work, social engagements and personal time. Ensure you have dedicated moments for relaxation and rejuvenation. Most importantly, get good at saying “No!” Just because you’re single, doesn’t mean your time is everyone else’s.

One more thing - stress is a normal part of life that everyone experiences, single or not. The most important thing is how you manage it so that it does not affect your quality of life. Being single is not a problem; it’s a gift. You have the chance and choice to set your own path.

In wellness,

Kiaundra Jackson, LMFT