Sometimes it's impossible to sneak off to the places that make our stress melt away. However, many of us are lucky enough to have people in our lives with a similar -- if not greater -- calming effect.
Whether it's a best friend, a family member, a spouse or even a pet, a go-to chill-out pal can help mitigate the scary effects of chronic stress, including increased risk of depression, and stroke and even a shrinking of the brain.
We asked you to share via Twitter and Facebook the person who helps you feel most at peace. Here are some of our favorites.
Mom
"I turn to my amazing mother when I'm stressed. She always talks me out of my own head"
--@dcasalino
BFFs
"My BFF Su let me stay w/ her when my marriage was failing. She was who I needed."
--@1stYrDivorce
"My best friend Annie (left) ALWAYS knows the right thing to say when I'm feeling mad, sad or overwhelmed. She helps me break down situations and figure out how to be practical and calm about changing negative things into positive. I don't know what I'd do without her!"
--Tatiana Calderon
Furry Friends
"My dog chills me out!"
--David Galea
"Sure, she can't speak, which, when you need to vent, is great. Okay, she's deaf, and can't even hear the venting, but that way I know she won't take what I say the wrong way. I am so glad I saved her life, since she's been a life saver to me many times."
--Felicia Crabb
Little Ones
"My daughter"
--@LKTMc
Better Halves
"My husband and a nice run!"
--Bettina Swinscoe
"My hubby is my savior when super stressed out."
--@TiarastoBabies
Me, Myself And I
"Myself, usually. Because I get so complicated, sometimes it's just easier talking to someone who gets me without me having to explain myself. And that person is myself."
--Muna Rana
Who do you turn to when you're stressed? Tweet @healthyliving with #youchillmeout or add your photo to the slideshow below!
