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Almost everyday we face some type of stress or anxiety. Sometimes this can be a good thing. Good stress can help us focus, can motivate us, and help us make decisions. So how do we know when good stress becomes too much?
Practical Ways to Help Manage Chronic Stress
Our mental health experts at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center's mental health services reveal that typically the physical effects of acute stress do not last long. Some people may find themselves in a constant state of heightened alertness, which is called chronic stress. Untreated chronic stress manifests itself through behaviors and emotions, cognitively and physically, and it affects the whole body. As a result, symptoms put pressure on the body for an extended period of time, which is very unhealthy.
Some physical symptoms can include:
- Muscle tension, aches and pains
- Restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feeling fatigued
Try these practical exercises to help manage stress.
- Take a moment to pause and think about what is causing you stress. If there are multiple things causing stress, focus on one.
- Write down your feelings to try and organize your thoughts. Sometimes when we are stressed our minds tend to spiral.
- Talk to someone about how you are feeling. It can be a family member or friend, someone you feel comfortable with.
- Then think about ways this stress can be relieved. Is there a way you can change the thing that is causing stress?
- If you have the control to make changes, write a step by step list of ways to improve the situation.
- Follow your list of steps and see if any improvements in your stress have been made.
Following these steps can give us a sense of control in a time when things feel out of control. If the stress in your life is out of your ability to control it, try not to negative self-talk. Know that you are only human. Remember to take time for yourself to do something that brings you joy.
Sources: Psychology Tools, NAMI. The Health Tip of the Week is for educational purposes only. For additional information, consult your physician. Please feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.
