Stress Management for Physical & Mental Well Being
Stress Is A Fact of Life
We experience stress every day of our lives from the moment we get up in the morning until we go to bed. Some amount of stress in our lives is normal – it’s what motivates us to do the things we need to do. When stress becomes extreme or takes over our lives to the point that it affects our ability to cope and function, stress management can help take some of the worry and frustration out of your life.
Stress can be felt both physically and mentally. Physically, you may feel ill, shaky, dizzy, experience increased perspiration or an elevated heart rate. Mental symptoms of stress can include the inability to make decisions or focus, constant worrying, frustration, panic, anger and impatience, fatigue and more. Stress can also affect our health because of the physical symptoms we endure when we are under extreme stress.
Causes of Stress
People often think that stress is caused by unwanted events or forces in our lives. These can include the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, feeling overwhelmed or overburdened by work or school, frustrating family situations, or simply a loss of control over events in your life. Most of the time, these are the most common sources of stress, however, even positive or anticipated life events can cause stress such as a wedding or the birth of a child.
Stress is the manner in which our bodies prepare to deal with something threatening by enabling physical responses that help us to remain alert and ready to react. If our bodies endure high periods of stress reactions over long periods of time, it can lead to burnout, physical illness, fatigue, and mental anguish.
Dealing With Stress
No matter the type of stress you may be experiencing, our therapists can help you realize the sources of your stress and learn coping strategies to deal with stress. Lowering your stress may include simple changes in your life such as nutrition, exercise, cutting excessive activities out of your schedule. In addition, we will set up a course of therapy specifically designed to your needs. Opening discussion, coping strategies and cognitive-behavioural therapy are just a few of the options available to help lower your stress and get back on track.
