Stressful Cities: How to Cope with Urban Life

On the face of it, big cities seem like the dream. They are the backdrop for most Hollywood blockbusters, and just give the impression that life is the definition of bliss. Of course, that’s just an illusion and, living in a big city brings just as many issues. In fact, some studies have suggested that there are even more issues to contend with, mainly about your mental health can be affected. In short, due to the fast-paced nature and the hustle and bustle of big city life, stress can get the better of some of us. Keeping this in mind, let’s look at some of the things you can do to cope with urban life.

How to Cope with Urban Life

Know Your Escape Route

You might live in a big city, but there will always be places to switch off. Some might find some escape through exploring places like Covent Garden, while others may fancy something more tranquil in a nearby park or through sports.

The main thing you need to do is understand your escape route. For some of you, this might be more drastic action than it is for others, but just knowing that there is a place you can go and enjoy yourself and briefly escape from life when it all gets too much. Doing this can be invaluable for your health, both physical and mental.

Embed Yourself in Your Neighbourhood

You might reside in a huge city, but that doesn’t mean to say that there aren’t smaller neighbourhoods that form this.

This can be crucial when it comes to lowering your stress levels. Sometimes, things just get too busy, and it’s all about going back to basics with the people who are around you.

Chances are when you start to integrate yourself with the people who live near you. You’ll soon find that you’re not the only one feeling the stress of the big city and there are others who can help you. In fact, people who feel more connected to their community are happier, physically healthier and live longer. They also show fewer mental health problems than people who are aren’t well connected to the community.

Turn Your Back on The Car

It might be the most convenient method of travel in some regards, but driving is also a massive source of stress. Let’s not forget that the traffic in major cities isn’t slowing down by any stretch of the imagination, and this means that it’s not uncommon to be stuck in your vehicle for hours on end.

As such, try to reduce your stress levels by choosing other methods of transport. As we all know, the options here are endless. Whether it’s the tube, cycling or even walking.

You’re Not Alone with The Underground

Without the tube, there’s no doubt that cities would be very congested places indeed. At the same time, there’s no doubt that this transport method can feel quite claustrophobic.

If you are someone who struggles with this, one of the best pieces of advice is just to become aware of what’s around you. Try and observe everything in the immediate vicinity of you, as this will reassure your brain that you are in control and there’s nothing to worry about down there.