How Going Out Can Lower Your Stress Levels
by freelance contributor Sally Perkins

After a long week at the office, it’s normal to feel a little bit stressed out. In fact, 77% of Americans regularly experience physical symptoms as a result of stress, while one-third of people feel that they live with extreme stress. There are plenty of methods to deal with stress – massage, exercise, creative outlets, and more – but one severely underrated way of unwinding is by heading out of the house to socialize. Letting your hair on the dancefloor is a great way to blow off steam.

Humans of all ages are social creatures, and without enough contact with other people, it can take a toll on both our physical and mental health. If you’re feeling drained or stressed out, a night out with friends might just be what you need to revitalize yourself.

How Socialization Impacts Stress

There are a couple of ways that social support can lower our stress levels. Contact with other people raises the level of oxytocin in our brain. This hormone not only helps us to bond with others but also has powerful relaxing effects that help us to de-stress and decompress. Additionally, a social setting is the perfect way to take your mind off of stressful or painful circumstances and give yourself a short break. This lets you return to your work or your home feeling refreshed and helps to prevent burnout.

Your social circle is also a good place to turn in difficult times. If you’ve been feeling stressed out, it can help to talk your problems through with friends and loved ones. Even if you don’t come up with any solutions, simply discussing an issue and getting it off your chest can make a world of difference when you’re feeling anxious.

Getting Yourself Out There 

These days, it’s easier than ever to get out of the house and socialize. You can reach out to professional services and plan an event for yourself and your friends, or see what’s going on around town. If no one you know is available, online groups on sites such as Meetup.com are a great way of finding new friends that share your interest. You can also find love connections online by signing up for dating sites or using classifieds such as Craigslist.

If you find yourself feeling stressed out on a regular basis, you’re not alone. A hectic home and work life can leave you feeling drained. No matter how busy you are, though, it’s essential that you take the time out of your week to care for yourself. Going out and socializing with the people you love can help to lower your stress levels and leave you feeling happy, relaxed, and fulfilled.