Flexible Spending Accounts Help for National Stress Awareness Month

Throughout the month of April, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and other healthcare organizations will celebrate National Stress Awareness Month. This month was created to educate individuals on the health and wellness benefits that come with better managing one’s stress levels. Stress can contribute to regular headaches, depression or stomach issues, as well as life-threatening occurrences like heart disease and stroke. In a busy world where career, family and financial issues loom large, healthcare professionals hope that adults will heed the message of National Stress Awareness Month and make an effort to assert control over their lives.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) holders have a lot less to worry about when it comes to medical out-of-pocket costs. If you’re wondering how to spend your funds this year, there are a surprising number of FSA eligible products that could play a vital role in an anti-stress regimen.

Here are a few products that can limit your stress risk factors:

1. Smoking deterrents

Using a substance like tobacco as a crutch may help control stress symptoms in the short term, but they can cause more damage in the long run, reported the Mayo Clinic. FSA eligible prescribed smoking deterrents like nicotine patches, gums and inhalers can help you kick your habit and find more effective outlets of managing stress.

2. Pain relief

Whether you have a sore back after a long day at the office or another form of chronic pain, make an effort to relax, decompress and unwind after each day. Use a heating pad, neck wrap or other FSA eligible product to treat your pain. Use this time to meditate, read a book and shake off the concerns that weigh heavily on you each day.

The American Psychological Association reports that the most effective means of stress management include removing yourself from individual stressors, finding social support and channeling your energies into something positive or beneficial in your life. Ultimately, being the master of your emotions and finding healthy outlets for your stress is the first step toward fostering long-term health and a positive attitude. With an FSA at your disposal, you can use this resource to build off of this strong foundation to find the balance and composure needed to face life’s everyday challenges.