Dealing with Stress and Anxiety

How do i not get stress and anxiety because my life is falling apart

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

Judaism has many tips on dealing with stress and anxiety.

First of all, you must know that we all have some stress and anxiety in our lives. Some stress and anxiety is completely normal. It is part of life.

King Solomon gives some great advice for dealing with anxiety and stress. As it says in the book of Proverbs (one of the three books written by King Solomon): “Anxiety in the heart of a person causes dejection, but a good word will turn it into joy.”

The commentators explain that the Hebrew word for “dejection” (“yashchena”) can also mean a number of other things such as to “suppress.” By using this alternative translation/interpretation, the verse actually helps unlock the secret in dealing with stress and anxiety.

As such, the verse can be read as, “If there is anxiety in the heart of a person, suppress it.”

Everyone has different ways for “suppressing” negative feelings. I would suggest “suppressing” your stress and anxiety by simply focusing on more important matters. When the more important matters are thought about and tended to, we then free up space in our heads (and in our day!) to better deal with the negative issues.

I would also suggest speaking to friends about what it troubling you. Our sages speak frequently about acquiring a good friend and sharing our troubles with them. A listening ear, a different perspective, a sympathetic heart, does wonders for stress and anxiety. Very often a friend will have great tips on dealing with your stress and anxiety, and will also likely make you realize that your problems may not be as difficult as you think!