Stress is a common response to tough events or situations. If you are working in health care, in a potentially high-pressure role, stress may become second-nature.

Tackling tension and stress after your shift can be a challenge, so here are our top 5 tips for releasing stress and unwinding after work.

1. Debrief to someone who understands

Sometimes, you simply want someone to listen. You’re not necessarily looking for a response.

Talking to someone familiar with your job can be the most valuable de-stressor, providing you with the opportunity to vent and express your frustration.

Hearing a comforting and reassuring voice can make all the difference, so make sure you debrief to someone who isn’t going to add to your concerns.

2. Fuel your body

Although a block of chocolate may sound appealing after a tough day in the “office”. It’s all about balance.

We all focus on eating food to fuel our body while on shift, however, it is just as important to feed your body nutrient-rich food afterwards. Stress can be taxing on the immune system leaving us exposed to increased risks of falling ill.

Replenishing your body with food that is beneficial, can help our body fight back against the stress.

3. Invigorate your mind

Exercise can be a great way to burn off your anxiety and stress by shifting your focus to something positive whilst you process your thoughts.

As a bonus, you can use this as an opportunity to get outside for a walk in the fresh air.

If exercise doesn’t sound appealing to you, pump up the volume on your speaker, and dance it out! Movement through dance can be fun and help you to unwind while music is thought to also have a therapeutic result on our emotions.

4. Laugh!

Laughter can be one of the best medicines for relieving tension, so go ahead and give it a try!

That little giggle you just did, not only made you smile it stimulated your heart, lungs, muscles and increased the endorphins released from your brain. Setting you up for a better disposition and easing your tension.

5. Reset

Sleep is our way of pressing the “Restart” button, a time where your body can repair and restore itself.

Although regular sleep cycles my not always be possible, adopting a sleep routine can help you to unwind and put an end to the stress of the day.

Take your time to do some mindful breathing or meditation to help you drift off after a tense shift.

Whatever techniques you choose, don’t forget that taking time for yourself is just as critical as taking care of your patients and colleagues when you return to work. Try not to see it as an indulgence, but a requirement to be your best, at work and home.