There are lots of sources of stress. Homework, pressure from friends, and not getting enough sleep are at the top of the list. Just add in the strain of having to deal with going back to school after a care-free summer, and mix in having to cope with a chronic illness such as PCOS. Yikes… the result is a recipe for disaster (unless you have effective ways to manage your stress).

I have to say though, that not all stress is bad. Some stress helps to motivate you to get things done (your homework for example) but lots of stress on a daily basis will take a toll on your body and mind, and puts you at risk for anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, and lowered immunity to common illnesses. So, what can you do to reduce the stress that leads to negative outcomes? You can start by “draining your brain”, which is my silly expression for writing down all the things that you are worried about and what needs to get done.

When you are finished, look at your list and separate all of the items on the list into the following three categories:

1. “These can wait”
2. “These should get done soon”
3. “Do these TODAY”

Now that you have a priority list, your brain doesn’t have to struggle to remember what you need to do. It’s all on paper, which gives you time to exercise. Participating in most any type of physical activity whether it’s walking, running, dancing, going to the gym, (or doing another activity that gets your heart pumping), is not only a great way to lower stress, it’s an important way to help control your PCOS symptoms. While you’re exercising you can focus on your body, rather than your worries. Vigorous exercise also triggers the release of certain chemicals called “endorphins”, which make you feel happier and more relaxed, not to mention that exercise burns calories.

If you feel that you just can’t manage your stress or you’re having a hard time coping with something (and it lasts for up to two weeks or more) it’s important to talk with your health care provider.

-Nurse Phaedra