READ: Stressed? Here are some steps you can take to decompress and reset...
Take a beat and take a break...
It's that time of year again when we are slowly starting to sleep or sleep on ourselves.
With so much potential, so many deadlines and expectations, it's a no-brainer that we often feel overwhelmed or stressed.
Feeling stressed is very normal, however, feeling it consistently will only lead to anxiety, as well as numerous other health issues.
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What is stress?
Stress is the body’s response to a challenge or demand.
Everyone experiences stress, which can be triggered by a range of events; from small daily challenges to major changes like a divorce or job loss.
Although we often think of it as being negative, stress can also come from positive changes in your life, like getting a promotion at work or having a new baby.
Due to it being Stress Awareness Month, it is important for us to recognise what our personal stressors are.
Ways to identify what is causing us stress:
Physical symptoms of stress include:
- Aches and pains
- Chest pain or a feeling like your heart is racing
- Exhaustion or trouble sleeping
- Headaches, dizziness or shaking
- High blood pressure
- Stomach or digestive problems
Stress can lead to emotional and mental symptoms like:
- Anxiety or irritability
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Sadness
If we aren't aware of the source of our stress, it will only lead to a slippery slope where we need an "escape" in order to deal with reality.
Things that can be seen as an escape are alcohol use, caffeine consumption, gambling, binge eating, sex, and so much more.
All of these unhealthy releases are just a quick fix for a much grander issue at hand. With a huge decline in a mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being, it will be much more difficult to return to a state of equilibrium.
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So what can we do to aid us in decreasing our stress levels?
- Prioritise your health
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Reduce triggers of stress
- Try relaxation techniques
- Set realistic goals and expectations
- Have boundaries
- Plan and prepare
- Talk to someone about how you are feeling
- Do something everyday that brings you joy
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"Don't let your mind bully you into believing it must carry the burden of it's worries" - Astrid Alaunda
Take time to decompress or else you will. Don't worry about the things that cannot be changed, change the things you can.
If you ever need help, don't be afraid to reach out to loved ones or professionals and ask for it.
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