Stress Awareness

By Yadi Hernandez, LMSW, BHC

 

National Stress Awareness Day is held on the first Wednesday of November. This is to highlight the importance of stress and the impact it has on your daily life. Often, there is a struggle to recognize the signs of stress and may not have the tools to manage stress effectively.

 

There are many factors in our lives that can increase stress such as health, finances, marital/relationship, work, housing stability, bills, grief and loss, holidays etc. High stress levels can impact both your mental health and physical health. Signs that stress is impacting your mental health can look like increased anxiety and depression, increased mood swings, irritability, problem with decision making, difficulty concentrating and remembering things. The ways stress can impact our physical health can show up as increased heart rate or heart palpitations, headaches, stomach aches, body aches or body tension, difficulty with sleep and weakened immune system.

 

What can we do to manage stress? There are different strategies we can use to manage stress. We can work on healthier lifestyles, relaxation techniques, cognitive strategies, and social support. Examples of healthy lifestyles could include things like incorporating physical activity, eating healthier, limiting caffeine and alcohol use, creating a sleep hygiene routine, and working on time management of your daily activities/tasks. Relaxation techniques can include guided mediation, breathing skills, and progressive relaxation techniques. Cognitive strategies can include challenging negative thoughts, focusing on what is in control, and journaling to process emotions and thoughts. Social support can mean talking to trusted friends and family members, support groups, or talking to a mental health provider. Please reach out if you need support to manage stress.

 

Lastly, November 11 is Veterans’ Day. I would like to thank all our Veterans, fallen Heroes and their families.  Thank you for your service and dedication.