Why 'Chill Out' Isn’t a Mental Health Plan

Stress Management 101

Stress management

Stress management is a term we hear all the time, but let’s be honest, if managing stress was easy, would we even have stress to begin with? Especially in South Africa, where loadshedding schedules, potholes, and Eskom memes are part of our daily lives, stress seems unavoidable. And then, someone says, “Just chill out!” Really? That’s like telling a Capetonian it’s “just a bit of wind” during a gale-force southeaster.

Stress is a normal part of life, but it becomes a problem when it’s constant. That tight chest feeling, the headaches that mysteriously vanish on weekends, or the mood swings that make your family cautiously back away—these are all signs that stress has overstayed its welcome.

What Happens When You're Stressed?

Stress triggers the “fight or flight” response in your body. Your heart beats faster, your palms get sweaty, and your brain decides it’s a good time to forget where you put your car keys. In moderation, stress helps you rise to challenges—like acing that work presentation or avoiding traffic on the N1. But chronic stress? That’s a recipe for burnout.

Real Stress Management Strategies

Forget vague advice like “relax.” Here are practical ways to take back control:

Breathe, but for real: No, not the annoyed sigh you let out when your boss emails you at 6 PM. Practice deep breathing exercises. They calm your nervous system and won’t cost you a cent.

Move it, move it: Exercise might sound like the enemy, but even a brisk walk around the block or a TikTok dance session can reduce stress hormones.

Set boundaries: If you can’t say no to others, you’re basically saying no to yourself. Whether it’s WhatsApp work group chats or unwanted family advice, boundaries are lifesavers.

Stress “tools”: Journaling isn’t just for teenage angst—writing down what’s stressing you out helps you process it. Or try adult colouring books—because we’re all big kids, right?

Professional help: South Africans have a tough-it-out mentality, but therapy isn’t just for “serious” problems. Even one session can give you insights you didn’t expect.

Bonus Tip: Laugh More

Nothing beats stress like a good laugh. Watch Leon Schuster pranks, binge a local comedy, or scroll through some Twitter clapbacks. Laughter won’t solve your problems, but it’ll definitely make you forget them for a while.

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