Welcome to November – the 2rd of November is Stress Awareness day nationally. There has never been a more appropriate time to write this article with the cost of living crisis and concerns about fuel bills causing nationwide concerns.
What is stress? Simply it is the body’s reaction to feeling under threat, overwhelmed and unable to cope with physical, mental and emotional pressure. It is a very common, but the symptoms can be severe, for example depression and anxiety, particularly when stress has featured for a significant amount of time.
Stress affects us in different ways, some people are able to manage stressful situations, while others will be overwhelmed by it more quickly. Our general emotional resilience level and approach to a recent stressor can be varied according to many factors such as the context, how we are generally coping with life, our physical health and environmental factors. Living with an ongoing difficulty such as financial stress in the long-term takes its toll on both individuals and families. Short term financial stress is more manageable because generally we can see the end in sight, however when the situation is prolonged it can have devastating consequences for some including leading to suicidal behaviour.
Some of us might react to a stressor in the moment and to the physical feelings that may feature at the time, while others may take a more reflective, measured approach. It all boils down to what our tolerance level is like currently. Let’s be compassionate about our reactions. It’s important to understand the factors influencing the reasons we react the way we do, and looking at a more balanced approach that supports us in cushioning ourselves against stressful situations.
Being proactive and not avoiding situations when we can see the potential for difficulties enables us to respond often with more choice. For example, if we can recognise that our finances are beginning to become problematic rather than trying to manage them seek help from services that can support you in putting together a financial plan, so you start to feel more in control, and less alone. Taking control of the situation can be really empowering; often the small things we adjust are what can make the biggest difference to our situation.
When we are experiencing negative stress we tend to gravitate to unhealthy habits, this can be hard when we are feeling overwhelmed and anxious. However excessive alcohol (or other addictions) and poor diet makes us feel tired and lethargic which only adds to those feelings of unable to cope.
It’s important that we recognise the differences between good stress for example achieving goals that give us a sense of achievement and improve our self esteem, AND stress that becomes harmful eg unreasonable targets that we believe are unattainable.
‘Good’ stress in the short term motivates and inspires us, keeping us focused and performing well. ‘Bad’ stress however is the kind that exhausts you, leaving you lethargic, overwhelmed and unable to think clearly and keeps our body in ‘threat’ mode which is harmful to your health.
Exercise is a really good way to support you’re wellbeing and protect you against high levels of stress. It doesn’t irradicate it but it does give your mind and body what it needs to balance those intrusive worrying thoughts. Remember that exercise can be physical but also mental exercise such as puzzles, crosswords, board games, jigsaws are also stress relieving for the brain.
Sadly, at times of stress we can convince ourselves that we don’t have time for healthy activities that help us manage personal stress better. This is a false economy. Spending time with people you like and developing a positive support network can help you view your situation from a different perspective.
It’s really important to create time for yourself to do whatever you want just for you. It’s also important to build this into your week otherwise it gets lost in the day to day routine therefore doesn’t remain a priority. For some, meditation, breath work and being outside in space are important. For others, meeting a friend, playing a game of pool or having a run is their go to.
There are lots of reasons people become stressed and one person’s worst nightmare may not be high on the radar of someone else. What matters is our response and if we can recognise this early we can respond quickly therefore we don’t become consumed with the feelings and thoughts associated with our triggers for stress.
All of us here at The Wellness Consultancy are here to help individuals who are struggling. Talking therapy can be a useful way to make sense of what’s going on in your life by offering a safe confidential space that can help you to develop robust coping strategies that supports a balanced mindset therefore minimise stressful situations. One to one therapy may not appeal to you and there are many other ways to access support such as in group activities, online forums, education and self help.
Andrea Whittaker-Ward
Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor
Further information:
Stress Awareness Day | NHS Employers
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk