ABSTRACT
When physical and mental stress becomes overwhelming and prolonged, the risk for both medical and psychiatric illnesses increases. There are limitations to the pharmacological approach for treating psychiatric illness, as many major classes of psychiatric drugs create neurotransmitter imbalances, physical and psychological dependence, and undesirable side effects. While medications are necessary or helpful in many cases, there are also non-drug lifestyle strategies and mental health techniques that can help to manage stress. This chapter explores the concept of stress and how it relates to wellness, and provides practical strategies, both physiological and psychological, to manage stress and optimize long-term emotional wellness and happiness.
