I've heard people tell me to take 5-8 deep breaths. That doesn't really help me. Has anyone been to the doctor to deal with stress? What's your normal routine to deal with stress?

"Tactical breathing."

Four count in through the nose. Hold for four, then out through the mouth for four.

I've used this in some exceptionally high stress situations at work. I've used this to keep the right level of excitement while in the door while competing at the USPA nationals in Canopy Piloting as well as on the swoop tour.

I've used this to keep the right level while getting ready to get on the platform for powerlifting.

I used this technique standing at the alter for my wedding.

It works well!

Rub one out...

chew gum

Eat a banana. Potassium and high in vitamin b which calms nerves.

Similar to this:

I usually do the tactical breathing thing, close my eyes for a second, then visualize myself successfully completing the task I need to do.

Serious Answer:

Learn to not give a sht.

My friends and I goes to a bar, drink till we loose ourselves. Then we went home and even they keep banning those tanning beds, I still bought this one http://tanningbeds.mercola.com/tanning-beds/vitality-tanning-bed.aspx and relax for about 10 mins then go to sleep.

Getting wasted and hopping in a tanning bed is a top notch idea.