Need Stress Relief? Read This List

In 2024, a poll found that 43 percent of American adults said they're more anxious than they were in 2023, an increase of more than 30 percent from the previous year. Respondents cited the economy, the presidential election and gun violence as the main causes for their rising stress. Whatever your reasons for feeling anxious, we've got solutions. Here are some simple ways to calm your jittery nerves during these trying times. We've also collected some fascinating (and sometimes silly) stories and historical anecdotes that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Smile with your dog

If you ever thought your dog was smiling at you, chances are you were right. When a pup pulls back their lips and exposes their teeth — especially while approaching, wagging or whining — that's their way of saying hello. Scientists say this behavior evolved as a form of communication with humans to reinforce the bond between species. And that bond is good for your mental health. Studies have found that interacting with a dog for just five to 20 minutes, even if it's not your pet, can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increase levels of oxytocin, the so-called "love hormone."

Punk dental advice

During a 2010 commencement speech at New York's Pratt Institute, the great performer and poet Patti Smith gave this life advice to the graduating class: “Be happy, take care of your teeth, always let conscience be your guide." It's a beautiful reminder not to overthink things in our life. 

Alice Cooper's and Salvador Dali's bromance­

After seeing heavy metal rocker Alice Cooper perform live in 1973, the surrealist painter Salvador Dali was so impressed that he invited Cooper to hang out with him in New York City. Dali even proposed immortalizing Cooper with a portrait, which he created using diamonds, ants and a chocolate éclair. Cooper repaid the compliment by naming his pet boa constrictor after the iconic, mustachioed artist.

Purrfectly relaxing

Cats don't purr because they're happy; they purr as a form of self-soothing, helping them reduce their stress levels. And it has a residual effect on us. Research suggests that the calming vibrations of a cat's purr can have therapeutic effects on humans, lowering heart rates and anxiety levels.

Lithuanian basketball players wear tie-dye kits, sponsored by the Grateful Dead.

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Tie-die for the bronze!

When Lithuania’s national basketball team lacked the funds to compete in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, they lucked out with an unusual sponsor: The Grateful Dead. The iconic rock band stepped up with tie-dyed uniforms and other necessities. The collaboration resonated as a worldwide act of goodwill, and a Lithuania snagged a bronze medal.