Stress management offers a range of ways to help you better deal with stress and difficulty, also called adversity, in your life. Managing stress can help you lead a more balanced, healthier life. Stress is an automatic physical, mental and emotional response to a difficult event. It's a common part of everyone's life. When used positively, stress can lead to growth, action and change. But negative, long-term stress can lessen your quality of life. Stress management approaches include: Learning skills such as problem-solving, focusing on important tasks first and managing your time. Improving your ability to cope with difficult events that happen in life. For example, you may learn how to improve your emotional awareness and reactions. You also may learn how to increase your sense of control. And you may find greater meaning and purpose in life and have more gratitude and optimism. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, tai chi, exercise and prayer. Improving your personal relationships.