If you can’t change what is causing you stress, try to change what you expect from yourself. You can adapt to stressful things when you take control in this way.

• Reframe problems. Find the positive in a stressful situation. Rather than getting angry about a traffic jam, for example, look at it as a chance to pause and regroup, listen to your favourite radio station, or enjoy some alone time.
• Look at the big picture. When you’re in a stressful situation, ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? A year? Is it really worth getting upset over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy elsewhere.
• Remember that nobody is perfect. Know your limits and what you can realistically do while recovering from a concussion. Trying to be perfect will stress you out. Set realistic and reasonable standards for yourself and others.
• Focus on the positive. Take a moment to think about all the things you’re grateful for, including your own positive qualities and gifts.
• Be kind to yourself. How you think is linked to how your body feels. Each time you think a negative thought about yourself, your body gets stressed and tense. If you see good things about yourself, you’re more likely to feel good.
• Stop using words such as "always," "never," "should," and "must." Shift to more realistic and supportive ways of thinking, and accept the things you cannot change.​​​ ​​