"Lifestyle" refers to personal behaviors and habits such as exercise, eating habits, cigarette smoking, alcohol and drug use, safety, and stress management. Experts say that a person's lifestyle helps him or her resist the negative effects of stress and prevents stress from becoming a problem. You may want to follow the Lifestyle Guidelines listed below to maintain your health and prevent stress:

Avoid cigarettes. Cigarette smoking is the single most important preventable cause of illness and early death. The effects of smoking can be reversed.

Exercise regularly. Regular exercise helps people of all ages look and feel better. Different kinds of exercise provide specific health benefits.

Eat sensibly. A nutritious diet is essential for maintaining good health and proper weight.

If you drink, drink only in moderation. Alcohol is frequently used to reduce stress because it has a relaxing effect. Regular, heavy use of alcohol leads to disease. Drinking and driving often leads to fatal or crippling accidents.

Use care in taking drugs. Although drugs may provide temporary relief from stress symptoms, they may not solve ongoing problems and tensions. Excessive or continued use of either prescription or illegal drugs may cause physical and mental problems.

Be safety-conscious. Living safely at home, work, and on the road prevents accidents and injuries.

Learn to manage stress. Stress is a normal part of living. Three major steps to keep daily stress from becoming a problem: take time to relax, talk with a friend, and learn to keep a positive outlook.