Simple Steps To Help Deal With Stress

KYW's Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --  We stress a great deal here in America. It is a national hobby of sorts. Many of us have common worries with  concerns about job, family, finances, or health.

In one recent survey, one in four Americans said they'd felt extremely stressed in the past month. There are some simple steps you can take to help with stress. One step is to take steps! Try walking. You'll start feeling better in as little as five minutes. 

Don't like walking?

Any physical activity -- dancing, riding an exercise bike, and swimming -- can help.

Another way to help is with calm, deep breathing.

One other thing that can really help is to prioritize. Remove things from your to-do list that can wait. Then work on the most important items.

And give yourself a pat on the back for what you've completed.