Feeling in control boosts stress management, study finds

Feeling in control can significantly boost your ability to manage daily stress, says a new study.

Why it matters

  • Perceived control helps resolve daily stressors.
  • Effect increases with age, benefiting older adults more.

By the numbers

  • Study included over 1,700 adults.
  • 62% more likely to resolve stressors with higher perceived control.
  • 61% likelihood at start, increasing to 65% after 10 years.

The big picture

  • Perceived control is dynamic and can be strengthened.
  • Strategies like setting priorities can enhance perceived control.

What they're saying

  • Small boosts in perceived control can improve stress management.
  • Effect varies day by day.

Caveats

  • Based on self-reported data, which can be subjective.
  • Effect might vary by stressor type and severity, though study found no variation.

What’s next

  • Explore perceived control's impact on chronic stress.
  • Develop practical strategies to enhance perceived control.