Stress is something everyone deals with off and on throughout life. Stress is how our bodies react to the ever changing external influences in our lives. Depending on how we view it, stress can be positive or negative. Most of the time when we feel stressed, we know it. We can consciously say, “I am stressed out.” But sometimes, our bodies do the talking for us loud and clear.
There are many physical symptoms that can be stress-related:
headaches
muscle tension
poor sleep patterns
rashes
high blood pressure
chest pain
stroke
stomachaches
ulcers
possibly diabetes
possibly certain types of cancer
Mental symptoms can include:
anxiety
panic attacks
depression
suicidal thoughts
paranoid thoughts
apathy
relationship issues
Everyone is different in what they consider stressful and in how they handle stressful situations. Stress can never be totally avoided, and some stress is good because it helps us to grow. Stress can be caused by a loved one’s death as well as a move to a bigger house or starting a great new job.
Short term stress is easier to manage because the end is in sight and the person knows it’s temporary. When stress is seen as long-term, such as a life-long disability, the person needs to learn ways to handle the stress.
There are many acceptable ways of dealing with stress and it’s a matter of finding what will work in each case. It would be wise to learn several coping techniques so that if one doesn’t work, another can be tried. Sometimes it will take several of the techniques to make a dent in the stress.
What triggers the stress? Examine the triggers and put a name to them so that they’re not lurking in the subconscious. Sometimes it’s best to walk away or avoid situations that can become stressful.
Meditation is a huge stress reliever as well as a stress preventative. Meditation can be practiced for short time periods and still be effective. Keeping the routine going is key.
Exercise is a good coping mechanism, especially when the “flight or fight” response is racing through the body. Taking a brisk walk, running up some stairs, playing a game of racquetball, or following an exercise tape can work.
Sometimes the answer is a vacation to give the body a break from the stress and give the mind a chance to have a fresh perspective on the situation. Even just a day off doing something entertaining can mean a decrease in stress levels.
Talk it out with an understanding and empathetic friend. It feels like such a relief to get it “off your chest”, as long as both people then move on and don’t keep rehashing it.
There are times when it’s best to seek help from a qualified professional. They can offer even more positive methods of dealing with stress.
Some stress is a natural part of everyone’s life and even helps us to take action and grow. When your body is giving you physical or mental signs of too much stress, be kind to yourself and try the coping methods mentioned in this article.
