Let’s be real, we all get stressed for one reason or another. Whether it is a major life crisis or emergency, an important event or task that is coming up, a messy relationship or just a cluttered to-do list stress can happen. It’s going to happen whether we like it or not so we may as well know how to manage it. It could potentially be a good thing like motivating you to do well at something but most of the time it is what makes you freak out and impact your ability to think straight. It ranges from acute to chronic, which is why it needs to be addressed.
What can be considered the most common is acute stress which is commonly referred to as nerves. It can be severe, but it typically doesn’t last long. You may experience unpleasant symptoms like increased heart rate, confusion, panic, irritability, shortness of breath, chest pains, nausea, moodiness. Any of these symptoms could arise due to stress that could be related to an event where the results are uncertain. This is completely normal, what matters is how you calm yourself. I recommend taking deep breaths and/or taking a moment of prayer.
Though chronic stress is a different story which can be caused by ongoing pressure, financial issues, relationship problems, family drama, etc. This can lead to mental and physical damage over time. Symptoms of chronic stress include headaches, trouble sleeping, loss of energy, sudden weight change, panic attacks and inability to focus. This could be due to intense life changes or high-pressure situations. This could lead to severe physical and mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension and pain, heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, memory impairment, or ulcer.
There are plenty of things that can be done to help manage stress that you can make time for. For starters, regular exercise produces hormones that relieve stress. Exercise also helps tackle pressure and tension. This could be a good excuse to join a gym, take up martial arts, go for regular walks or start a home workout routine. It can gladly help your mind reset and refocus so it can tackle goals and obstacles.
Having a great support system help you keep a balanced mind. Friends and family members can help give you support and practical assistance. For all you know they may have a fresh perspective for you. After all loved ones are there for you to lean on. If you want to get an outsider’s perspective than you can find a support group or try counseling. Sometimes what you really need is the right people.
It’s also a good idea to try relaxation techniques that can help you stay calm. Deep breathing can be a practical method that can help you focus your mind. A little prayer can go a long way to help you find peace. The Lord has a way of reminding you that he is always in control. A little feel-good music couldn’t hurt either like something calming and encouraging or something upbeat and catchy. You could always try to do something you love as a distraction. There is always something to brighten your spirits.
If possible, you should eliminate any unnecessary triggers in your life. You can leave your toxic workplace, or your toxic relationship. If you’re overwhelmed, then you can let something go. We need to be able to push past obstacles, but we should always cut out anything that will make life more difficult than it needs to be. Not everything or everyone is worth our time.
As you know not everything is under our control so we should focus on what we can control. Things will not always go your way so we have to do what we can to make the most of it. The best way to get through life is to focus on what is most important. Prioritizing self-care and healthy habits is what keeps us going.
Brennan, D. (2023, September 14). What to Know About Stress and How It Affects Your Mental Health. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-and-how-it-affects-your-mental-health
American Psychological Association. (2024). How stress affects your health. American Psychological Association; American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/health
admin. (2024, September 4). The Impact of Stress on Mental Health: What You Need to Know – Mental Health Hotline. Mental Health Hotline. https://mentalhealthhotline.org/stress-on-mental-health/