Observed since 1992, National Stress Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of the causes and strategies for coping with stress. Furthermore, people are encouraged to raise awareness about current myths and misconceptions about stress and share information about the dangers of stress.
In April, we observe Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on stress’s role in our lives and explore ways to reduce it. Even though Stress Awareness Month has been observed since 1992, stress has become an everyday companion for many people in today’s fast-paced world. After all, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with work deadlines, financial burdens, relationship challenges, and technology.
Americans are the most stressed-out people in the world, with 55% of us experiencing stress during the day.
Thankfully, this blog is a great resource not just for Stress Awareness Month but all year long. In addition to discussing the different types of stress, we will also discuss how to regain a sense of calm.
The concept of stress isn’t new. Biologically, it’s ingrained in us. During prehistoric times, the “fight-or-flight” response was crucial to survival. Whenever we’re faced with a threat, our bodies go into overdrive.
“The fight-or-flight response, or stress response, is triggered by a release of hormones, either prompting us to stay and fight or run away and flee,” explains psychologist Carolyn Fisher, Ph.D. “During the response, all bodily systems are working to keep us alive in what we’ve perceived as a dangerous situation.”
This response served us well in the past. However, most “threats” today are psychological. Even though they don’t involve physical fight or flight, deadlines, arguments, and financial worries can trigger the same physiological reaction.
Leaving this response unchecked can lead to chronic disease. In addition to negative health consequences, such as anxiety, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Like ice cream, stress comes in different flavors. What’s more, the intensity and duration of each flavor vary. Stress can, however, generally be classified into three types:
An example of this is the “fight-or-flight” response. Whenever you have a challenge, your body releases a short-term surge of energy. Everyday events, such as deadlines, arguments, and exciting adventures, can trigger this response. It can be motivating, but too much intensity can be draining.
Common triggers:
Coping strategies:
Practicing mindfulness can help manage anxiety and the adrenaline rush caused by acute stress.
When acute stress becomes a regular visitor, this happens. The result is that life feels chaotic and overwhelming. Overwhelming work demands, juggling multiple responsibilities, financial stress, and excessive technology usage are all common culprits.
Common triggers.
Coping strategies:
Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help you calm down amidst the chaos. Spending even a few minutes focused in silence can make a big difference.
Among the types of stress, this is the most damaging. It feels endless and insurmountable, like a soul-crushing job. It occurs for many reasons, including ongoing issues in relationships, finances, health, and work. Existential concerns and personal anxieties can also play a role.
Common triggers:
Coping strategies:
When chronic stress becomes a constant companion, professional help may be needed. Several therapies can be helpful, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDRI. Daily practice of promoting well-being and calm is vital to achieving this feeling.
Knowing the different types of stress and their triggers will allow you to develop strategies for better managing them and achieving a healthier, more relaxed state of being.
Even though a bit of stress can motivate us, too much can damage our minds and bodies. Here are the far-reaching consequences of chronic stress and why addressing it is essential before it takes hold.
There is more to stress than just mental strain. Physically, it manifests in many ways. As a result of chronic stress, you may develop:
As we all know, chronic stress also affects our mental well-being. Here’s how:
Chronic stress affects not only you but also your relationships. Listed below are some reasons why:
It is common for stress to creep in subtly. Fortunately, there are some signs you should notice before stress sets in.
If you notice any of these in yourself, you must act as soon as possible.
From quick stress-busters to lifestyle changes that can make a lasting difference, you can take back control of your well-being.
It is important to find a stress management technique that works for you. Until you discover a toolbox of calm and collected strategies, experiment with different techniques and lifestyle changes.
Ultimately, you can regain peace of mind and live a happier, healthier life by managing stress effectively.
A challenge or threat triggers your body’s stress response. Work deadlines, financial difficulties, relationship problems, or even happy events like getting married or moving to a new home can cause stress. It is expected to experience some stress, but chronic stress can negatively affect your physical and mental well-being.
Symptoms of stress can vary from person to person, but some of the most common are:
Among the healthy ways to manage stress are:
It is possible to perform better if you experience little stress. Chronic stress, however, can harm your physical and mental well-being.
When stress interferes with daily life or you are having difficulty coping, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you learn coping mechanisms and develop a stress management plan.
Image Credit: Anete Lusina; Pexels
The post Cultivating Calm: A Guide for Stress Awareness Month appeared first on Calendar.
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