Why Are You Stressed Out?
Stress can be defined…
as any type of change that causes physical, emotional or
psychological strain. Stress is your body's response to anything that requires attention
or action.
Just like many things, stress can be difficult to balance. Many times, it feels like stressful
events tend to happen all at the same time. Especially as the holiday’s approach. It may
feel like you are hit with one thing, and before you can even process that, the next
stressful event occurs. Not only do you feel like your head is spinning, sometimes it
feels like you can’t breathe, and your heart feels like it is going to beat out of your chest.
The reaction your body feels may not match the stress that you are incurring,
in that maybe the stress response often feels overly intense, or that you feel this constant
weight, with or without any stressful input. Stress is not only felt in the brain and through
emotions, but also comes with a physical response.
What happens if that stress feels like it will never go away?
Like if you try to relax, even
for one second, you might let your guard down and be vulnerable to more stress? This
is called chronic stress, and it may feel like a physical and emotional trap, or a space
that feels so vulnerable it’s too overwhelming to explore.
But, what if you did? What if you allowed yourself a break or a moment to reset? Could
it help?
Not only is it necessary, but your quality of physical health, and overall quality of life
depend on it.
Chronic stress can precipitate multiple cardiac conditions, as well as high blood
pressure and stroke. Chronic stress can also create sleep problems, weight gain and
can have a negative effect on memory and concentration.
Perhaps, we can think of it as a person sawing a log with a dull blade. And, that person
expresses to you that they cannot take a break, because they are up against a deadline,
and cannot “waste” a moment of time.
Think about that for a moment.
Think about how many times we have told ourselves, and others, “I am too busy to take
a break.”
Has that ever resolved anything? Has it allowed you to be more productive?
I would venture to say, “No.” The more that we put on our “to do list,” the more important
it is to allow ourselves to take a break. It does not have to be extensive, even 5 or 10
minutes may be enough to hit that “reset” button.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, you can also take a moment to take a few
deep breaths. I would also encourage you to set reasonable boundaries; with your boss,
your coworkers, and even with your family. You are important. Your physical and
emotional health are important. If you allow yourself to set those expectations and
boundaries, you will feel less stressed, more confident, and more healthy. You deserve
it!
by: Brittany Jesernik, LCSW
Owner and therapist at Healing Hearts of Manhattan (IL)