Citation (APA style): Varvogli, L., & Darviri, C. (2011). Stress management techniques: Evidence-based procedures that reduce stress and promote health. Health Science Journal, 5(2), 74-89.
Abstract
Purpose: According to the World Health Organization, stress is a significant problem of our times and affects both physical as well as the mental health of people. Stress is defined as a situation where the organism‘s homeostasis is threatened or the organism perceives a situation as threatening. Stress coping methods are the cognitive, behavioral and psychological efforts to deal with stress.
Method: After a thorough literature review in major databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Science Direct) the following techniques were identified and are presented and briefly discussed here: progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, relaxation response, biofeedback, guided imagery, diaphragmatic breathing, transcendental meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction and emotional freedom technique.
Conclusion: These are all evidence-based techniques, easy to learn and practice, with good results in individuals with good health or with a disease.
Keywords: stress, stress management techniques, evidence based techniques, emotional freedom technique, cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, transcendental meditation, diaphragmatic breathing, mindfulness-based stress reduction.
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