Stress is usually a word we don't want to hear, but understanding it helps give you a leg up in managing it and leading a happier life!
Knowing your stress is half the battle.
We all have stress. We all have things that make us feel as if we're pressured or rushed.
Stressors can be positive or negative life events. Getting married or purchasing a home are thought of as good things, but are also stressful! We also all deal with stress differently. Some people exercise, some clean, some talk to friends, some make lists, some freakout, some get into conflicts with others. What is challenging sometimes is figuring out what type of stress we're dealing with and then figuring out the best way to try and address it.
Short-term stress is pretty normal. It generally resolves on its own since it's time-limited. Some examples are a work project, planning for an event, dealing with a child who has broken their arm -something time-limited that may add a little extra to your plate, but is still generally manageable.
However, little stressors can add up over time and if they aren't dealt with can be overwhelming. Using strategies like lists, asking for help from friends or family, keeping the basics (eating, sleeping, hygiene) in check, can all help.
Long-term stress is more difficult. It might be low-level stress but stretching on for a long time & feels difficult to escape. These often feel out of our control to change or shift. This could be extended caretaking for a loved one, dealing with a chronic illness, struggling with poverty, having an unsupportive family.
The same strategies outlined above can be helpful - but it may also be worthwhile to get alternate support systems in place - reaching out to support groups, trusted professionals or even talking strategies out with a counselor.
Post Traumatic Stress can happen after being exposed to danger or traumatic experiences. This type of stress has a serious impact on mental health and relationships with others. Responses at this level look like flashbacks, avoidance of anything related to incidents, nightmares, jumpiness & more.
Symptoms can improve with the right support & care - seeing a counselor is strongly recommended.
Managing stress: Physical activity can help as it provides an outlet for built-up strain and energy. Anything rhythmic or with a beat like walking, running, and dancing is soothing to our brains & helps us feel calmer. Knowing our own limits and feeling strong enough to say no or "say when" also helps. Consider relationships & how to improve them - or who you can outreach for additional support. Remember, everyone deals with stress - so you aren't alone
If you feel like you've tried it all and it's still just not working, call us at Tranquility.
Our counselors can help you sort out what's been going on & discuss options that fit your life to make things better. Ph: 234-466-6274