Open Your Eyes and Eliminate Bad Stress, Starting Now
Drawing on Blue Zones research, Dr. Jasper lists tips to manage stress and overall health.
By
April Jasper, OD, FAAO
May 1, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Open Your Eyes and Eliminate Bad Stress, Starting Now
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Stress Management Key Mechanisms Understanding the difference between acute and chronic stress and its impact on health. Target Population Individuals experiencing chronic stress and seeking to improve their health. Care Setting General wellness and preventive health.
Key Highlights
Acute stress can be beneficial, while chronic stress is harmful and linked to health issues. Regular exercise and adequate sleep are effective antidotes to stress. Social connections and mental activities help preserve memory and reduce stress. Dietary choices, including fruits, vegetables, and fish, play a role in stress management. Faith-based activities can significantly impact stress levels. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Identify signs of chronic stress through self-assessment and awareness. Management
Engage in at least 30 minutes of walking daily and 2.5 hours of cardio weekly. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule with at least 7.5 hours of sleep per night. Monitoring & Follow-up
Regularly evaluate stress levels and their impact on health and well-being. Risks
Chronic stress can lead to decreased life expectancy and cognitive decline. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults experiencing chronic stress.
Incorporate exercise, social interactions, and a balanced diet to mitigate stress.
Clinical Best Practices
Encourage patients to engage in mental activities and lifelong learning. Advise on creating a calming sleep environment and avoiding screens before bed. Promote the importance of saying no to excessive commitments that cause stress. References
