Stress is a natural part of life, but when daily stress builds, it can affect both mental and physical health. Work demands, family responsibilities, and financial pressures often leave little room to recharge. Over time, chronic stress can lead to tension, poor sleep, and reduced energy. Finding quick ways to relieve stress is essential for overall health.
The Ipsos iSay community shared their perspectives* on their stress relief strategies. Hundreds of members told us how they approach stress relief, where they find ideas, and which activities help them cope with stress and boost well-being. The results show how people deal with stress in practical, everyday ways.
Exploring Stress Relief Activities
Most community members said they are already engaged in stress relief practices. This shows people are making time to cope with stress, even when life feels busy.
Interest in Stress Relief
Survey results show that 78% US adults are currently practicing or interested in stress relief activities. Another 22% said they are not focusing on stress relief at this time. This highlights the importance of prioritizing relaxation and stress management to prevent burnout.
In fact, trends show growing concern across the country, prompting questions about who is feeling stress in America the most. Understanding these patterns helps us better target mental health support and resources.
Where People Find Inspiration for Stress Relief
When it comes to discovering new ways to reduce stress, people turn to a variety of sources. Inspiration often comes from a mix of personal connections, online resources, and personal experience.
Friends or Family
Conversations with friends or family play a big role, with 59% relying on close relationships to suggest stress relievers or offer support.
Personal Experience or Intuition
For 57%, the best guide is intuition. They use past experiences and self-awareness to identify stressors and find what works.
Social Media
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok inspire 52% of people to try new stress relief practices, from deep breathing to guided meditation.
Online Resources or Articles
Nearly half of respondents (46%) search for health information and expert advice online, including stress management tips from trusted sources.
Books or Magazines
For 29%, reading articles or features in books and magazines provides practical ways to relieve stress.
Workshops or Community Events
Organized learning plays a role for 14%, who attend workshops or events to explore mindfulness, physical activity, or stress management.
Other / None
A small group (4%) said “none of the above,” and 1% selected “other.”
Popular Stress Relief Practices
Stress relief shows up in simple, daily actions. Many blend physical activity, mindfulness, and creativity into routines that help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Listening to Music
The top response was music. A full 76% US adults said listening to soothing music or energizing songs helps them relax, focus on their breath, and improve their mood.
Walking or Jogging in Nature
Nature offers a natural stress reliever. 57% said walking or jogging outdoors is part of their stress relief routine. This form of physical activity helps lower cortisol levels and brings balance to mind and body.
Talking to a Friend or Family Member
Connection matters. 56% said a conversation with a friend or family member helps them process their feelings and relieve stress.
Exercise at Home or Outdoors
Movement is powerful in stress management. 55% said exercise, whether at home or outdoors, helps them cope with stress and boost resilience. It’s also an important part of maintaining work-life balance, which many people say contributes significantly to lowering everyday stress.
Reading
For 48%, reading offers focus and calm. Time spent in books provides a break from stressful situations and helps lower stress levels.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are one of the classic ways to reduce stress. 37% said practicing intentional deep breathing helps reduce muscle tension and manage stress.
Meditation
About 30% said meditation is part of their self-care routine. This form of stress relief encourages mindfulness and supports emotional well-being.
Yoga
24% integrate yoga into their stress relief plan. Yoga combines physical activity, mindfulness, and relaxation to support both body and mind.
Coloring or Drawing
Creative outlets help relieve stress for 24%. Activities like coloring or drawing provide a safe space to explore your feelings and reduce your stress.
Journaling
Writing supports reflection. 17% said journaling helps them manage stress by making sense of emotions and boosting clarity.
Other / None
4% reported “other” activities, while 1% said they do not engage in any stress relief practices.
Your Stress Relief Check-In
The Ipsos iSay community shows that stress relief is essential for overall health. Music, movement, and meaningful conversations stand out as the most common ways to cope with stress. Mindfulness, deep breathing, and creative practices also help people reduce stress and ease symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Take a moment to reflect on your own stress management habits. What already works for you, and what new ideas might be worth trying? Practicing small, consistent actions can help you feel calm, improve your mood, and even sleep better.
Visit your Ipsos iSay dashboard to explore more surveys and share your perspective. Your voice helps shape how we understand stress relief and the many ways people manage daily stress.
*Source: Ipsos study conducted July 10 - 14, 2025, on 1,000 US Ipsos iSay members
