Stress and Anxiety

All of us experience stress and anxiety.  However, when stress becomes prolonged or interferes with day-to-day life, it can be unhealthy.  High levels of stress and anxiety can lead to both physical and mental symptoms.  These symptoms may include poor concentration and memory, easy to anger, frustration, fatigue, insomnia, nausea or indigestion, or frequent illness.

Practicing positive coping skills may help reduce levels of stress you may feel.   Such stress-reducing techniques include:

Setting a schedule and getting organized.

Prioritizing and creating a plan for what has to be done at work or in our daily lives can often allow us to feel more in control.  But don’t forget to set realistic goals or plans.   Taking small steps is less overwhelming than focusing on everything at once.

Learn to say “no” more often to requests of others. 

It’s okay to admit we already have a full schedule and are unable to take on more.  Being assertive or saying “no” doesn’t mean rudeness, but shows you are taking care of yourself.

Balance hours spent at work or school with “downtime” or relaxation time.

It’s important to take breaks or do something outside of our work.  Clearing our mind or breaking away from stressful situations can often allow us to work better.

Get enough sleep. 

Proper amounts of sleep allow our bodies to repair and rest in order to continue at its best.

Eat healthy and watch out for sugar and caffeine. 

Like sleep, healthy eating habits can allow our bodies to function and face stressful situations better.  Although caffeine or sugar may give us those energy boosts we feel we need, too much may lead to fatigue or an inability to sleep well at night.

Exercise your body.  

Physical movement and exercise, like short walks, can help alleviate excess energy or nervousness that can accompany high levels of stress.  Exercise is healthy and can help us clear our minds and sleep better at night.

Finally, don’t hesitate to talk with a counselor or someone you trust. 

Others can help us find sources of anxiety we may have overlooked and also help us to think of ways that are less stressful in dealing with life problems.

If symptoms of anxiety and stress persist, then you should visit your doctor.   There are physical illnesses you may not be aware of that have symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Anxiety is an extremely common but treatable disorder.  Many people successfully overcome their anxiety once provided with the proper treatment.