Cut the Chemicals

Caffeine, nicotine, pep pills, and other stimulants obviously can make us wired and unable to slow down or relax. Alcohol, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills can also add to stress by making us tired, lethargic, hazy, and cause impaired judgment. They lower our resolve, reduce our ability to see things clearly and to plan things successfully. All of these substances may also affect our ability to get along well with other people, which is a major cause of stress.

How often do you ...

drink coffee or caffeinated tea?

drink caffeinated sodas?

drink alcohol?

smoke cigarettes?

use sleeping pills?

use pep pills or uppers?

use tranquilizers?

use other mood-altering drugs?

If you answered "Often" to any of the questions above, you may want to think about reducing or eliminating some of these substances from your life. If you think you have an addiction to any of the above, you should talk to your doctor for treatment suggestions. The Internet can also be an excellent tool to find such information.

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