This month is the month to discover what stress is and how you can deal with it.
At some point I’m sure we have all said we’ve had a stressful day, this can be experienced from a busy day, being stuck in traffic or not having enough hours in the day to get everything done we intended to but for some every conversation or chore can be overwhelming and stressful.
Is Stress bad?
In small easily managed situations stress is good because it gives you the boost to accomplish tasks and can even improve your memory.
How do you know when its too much
Stress is also a vital warning system, producing the fight-or-flight response. When the brain perceives some kind of stress, it starts flooding the body with chemicals like epinephrine, norepinephrine and cortisol. These chemicals are designed to intensify your focus so you can react quickly, when your child is about to fall - when you are in danger and need to run quickly this is a clever design in all of us to protect us.
But when this is happening too often and at the wrong times it takes its toll on your body
Inability to concentrate Get sick more often with colds Body aches Headaches Irritability Trouble falling sleeping or staying awake Changes in appetite More angry or anxious than usual
How long will it last?
Sometimes during busy times stress can peak but symptoms can diminish as soon as life returns to a more regular pace, however if the symptoms of stress continue and you are still feeling overwhelmed by the small things then this is when your stress has become a problem.
What can you do to help yourself
Ask for help and share your thoughts with someone. Wether this is a professional or a reliable friend talking things through can help you discover you are not alone and what you are experiencing is completely normal. Find a good App on your phone - relaxation and breathing techniques give relief and improve your habits. Speak to a GP - who can give you advice and maybe signpost you to someone that can help. Exercise - I know what your thinking, but a walk in the fresh air releases more of the feel good stuff, so go for it and breathe in all that fresh air!
Comments