In our daily hustle and bustle, we all face stress. It's like the uninvited guest that doesn't want to leave. And while most of us can manage through our daily ups and downs, stress can be overwhelming at times, causing strong emotions, health issues, and more.
Continue reading to explore five truths about stress in our lives.
1. Stress is not always the enemy.
Believe it or not, stress isn't always the bad guy. Sometimes, it can actually help us to complete something we have procrastinated or want to give up on. Stress can make us more alert and help us perform better at times. The trick to using stress in a positive way is to learn how to recognize your triggers and manage it in a healthy way.
2. Stress can sneak up on you.
Yes, stress can be sneaky. Sometimes it's just a quiet whisper in the background, while other times it's screaming in our face. It can bubble up to the surface of emotions at any moment — seeing an overflowing garbage can, catching someone in a lie, or missing an appointment on your schedule. These may seem like small things, but to someone with underlying stress they could be a trigger that makes their stress volcano erupt.
"After a traumatic event, people may have strong and lingering reactions. Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce stressful feelings and symptoms." - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
3. You can't avoid stress
Here's a tough one: you can't avoid stress entirely. Stress is a part of life and trying to avoid it, sadly, only leads to more stress. Instead of trying to avoid it, learn how to embrace it. Develop coping mechanisms and stress management techniques to help you through.
Ways to Cope With Stress
Take deep breaths and meditate
Eat healthy meals
Exercise regularly
Get good sleep
Avoid excessive caffeine
4. Stress is not one-size-fits-all
Everyone handles stress differently, and on different levels. That's what makes treating stress hard sometimes — your management techniques might not work for someone else. The key is listening to your body and understanding what triggers your stress. When you're feeling stressed, seek out help from a doctor, therapist, family member, or friend.
5. Ignoring stress causes more problems
Ignoring stress is a bad, bad idea because it will only grow over time if it's not dealt with. Stress is a part of our daily lives, yes, but it doesn't have to control our lives. Bottling up stress inside you can lead to larger health concerns, such as high blood pressure, insomnia, poor gut health, heart concerns, and more. When stress comes into your life, it's best to deal with it right then and there.
If you're facing some heavy stresses in your life and would like a caring ear to listen to your concerns, make an appointment with the mental health team at Pink Couch Wellness. No one should have to suffer silently with stress.
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