Stress is an inevitable part of life, but too much of it — over the long term—can compromise physical and mental health.

Over time, stress can lead to heart disease, ulcers, memory loss, and diminished immune function. It can contribute to problems such as insomnia, backaches, headaches and depression, as well.

You can develop skills to reduce stress and your reaction to it. By scheduling your time well, setting reasonable goals and avoiding procrastination, you can avoid feeling time-crunched. You can lessen your physical and mental response to stressful situations through laughter, deep breathing, meditation, exercise, massage and social support. Meditation relaxes the body and calms the mind, which lowers stress by reducing the heart rate and blood pressure. Exercise appears to reduce stress by releasing endorphins, improving blood flow to the brain and relieving tension in the muscles. Talking to others can offer the support you need to reduce stress, and even writing about your feelings can help you feel better. Alcohol, on the other hand, should never be used as a way to cope with stress.