Your boss just called notifying you that you are being transferred to a new location. The first thing that runs through your mind is the considerable undertaking to pack up, make the physical move, and then try to fit in with the new supervisor and staff. You also wonder about the housing, the schools, changing doctors and dentists. If you have children, one of the first questions is how they will react to the news? Will the adjustment go smoothly, or will this be a struggle.
The life stresses we face can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. Some examples of life stress found online at WebMD https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/causes-of-stress are:
- The death of a loved one
- Divorce
- Loss of a job
- Increase in financial obligations
- Moving to a new home or location
- Chronic illness or injury
- Emotional problems (depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, low self-esteem)
- Taking care of an elderly or sick family member
- Traumatic event – natural disaster, theft, rape, or violence against you or a loved one.
Each of us reacts differently to stress. Fear, attitude, uncertainty, perception, change, and unrealistic perceptions are a few factors contributing to stress. Some of the physical symptoms of anxiety can manifest themselves as:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Sleeplessness
- Irritability
- Upset stomach
- Difficulty concentrating
Long-term stress can erupt as the following physical and mental illnesses:
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Heart attack
- Fertility Issues
- Asthma and arthritis flareups
- Changes in sex drive
- Weight gain or loss
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Heart disease
- Heartburn and ulcers
Did you know extroverts tend to have less stress in their daily life? They have more significant social resources which can buffer against stress. Yet, perfectionists unnecessarily bring stress on themselves by focusing on high achievement. Whereas “Type A” personalities can stress everyone around them, including themselves.
Toxic people in our lives can also cause stress. It might be a family member, neighbor, friend, or co-worker that escalates our stress levels. Currently, social media contributes to stress as we naturally compare ourselves to others, making us feel inadequate, or bullying can occur.
Another ingredient for stress can be our daily inconveniences: running late, misplacing keys, forgetting an essential item at home, or forgetting an engagement. And what becomes more common each year is being too busy. People tend to be more active than ever, which adds more stress to their lives. Sometimes busyness is a necessity, such as working a second job. But other times, it can be due to guilt and not wanting to disappoint others, therefore, responding “yes” to all your time and talents requests.
Here is where I ask will you sink or swim? How will you deal with stress? Were you taught any specific steps to lessen the effects? Stress management can help alleviate the potential for these debilitating illnesses. Researching ways to manage your stress can be the first step to deterring the harmful effects. Listed below are seven ways to help alleviate stress.
- Accept that it is impossible to control everything in your life. Learn to compromise and be okay with doing your best.
- Close your eyes and slowly take ten deep breaths. You might also try counting to 10, then repeat to 20.
- Get enough sleep. The average person needs approximately seven hours each night. And if you’re under stress, your body may need more sleep.
- Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, and sugar.
- Eat well-balanced meals – not skipping meals, choose healthy snacks, and make wise choices about protein and carbohydrates.
- Sometimes just taking a time-out can help. Meditate for 10 minutes, get a massage, or listen to soothing music.
- Spend time cuddling with your pet.
I hope the above suggestions will help you make positive lifestyle changes and deal with the related stresses.
Have a safe and fun Labor Day weekend!
Julie