Understanding the Nature of Stress
Stress is different for each of us. What is stressful for one person may or may not be stressful for another; each of us responds to stress in an entirely different way.
Positive vs. Negative Stress: Stress can be perceived as positive or negative, dependent on the person, the situation, but mostly the perception of what is happening. It’s important that whether the stress is caused by healthy changes or dealing with new unexpected circumstances, that we manage it, so that we don’t have too much to deal with at one time. When stress is managed, it prevents being overwhelmed by it – and actually improves our outlook on life. A completely stress-free life is often reported as dull or boring.
You can manage stress effectively by prioritizing: Stresses and the problems that cause it are not created equal. Small problems can be dealt with more quickly as you gain confidence in finding solutions. Then, with the added skills, you can tackle the stress related problems more effectively. Don’t look at all stress as equal and by doing so, react to the enormity of the total of everything causing stress.
Find creative ways to deal with stress which fit best for you: Instead of listening to experts on stress, get to know yourself and what helps you to feel good about life. For example, some people thrive on relaxation, and it helps them to regenerate and go back into the stress with renewed energy. Others may need sports activities, working out, or some high risk activity to make stress more minimal and deal with it better. Which one are you? Design your own plan.
Look closer for symptoms of stress: Increased blood pressure over an extended period can be a sign of the body dealing with stress. Lack of concentration, headaches, stomach problems, sleeping too little or too much, or feeling that you need to be alone for extended periods of time can all be symptoms of stress that you are not paying attention to. Symptoms tell you to get a change of pace, learn more how to relax, or even change the way you are living your life. Many times the things we are tolerating in our lives can create a type of stress which can be eliminated.
If you have a stressful situation it often helps to talk it out with a friend or therapist. If you’re dealing with a life situation that is stressful to you, and you’d like to have a brief telephone consultation, please feel free to call me to discuss any subject or issue. This is a great way to take care of you and stay healthy.
I look forward to working with you soon!
Dr. Judith L. Allen
State Board Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
State Board Licensed Professional Counselor
State Board Licensed Registered Counselor
Clinical Member AAMFT
Clinical Member of American Distance Counseling Association (http://ADCA-Online.org)
References:
American Psychological Association