Coping with Stress

Stress is a fact of life that everyone, young and old, has experienced or will experience.  At times, stress can be beneficial, as it helps us to develop the skills we need to cope or adapt to new situations.  However, when a person becomes overwhelmed or is unable to cope with their stress, the negative effects become very apparent.  The physical or emotional tension can manifest itself in very harmful ways, especially after a traumatic or frightening event.

Effects of Stress

When someone is unable to manage their stress levels, physiological and psychological problems present themselves.  In addition to some of the non-life threatening side effects, such as irritability, anxiety, erratic sleep patterns, loss of appetite, or apathy, stress has been linked to conditions that are even more serious.  In instances of extreme cases, it can elevate blood pressure, cause severe depression, suppress your immune system, and lead to neurological or emotional disorders.  If a coping method is not identified and utilized, these problems tend to compound themselves and wreak havoc on your physical and mental health.

Find a Way to Cope

Fortunately, there are many effective ways to deal with your issues to avoid additional pain and hassle.  The most important thing is to identify the cause of your stress so you can take action.  Focus on the things in your life that you can control and realize that there is a huge difference between caring and worrying.  It is important to realize that the latter is an unproductive means of coping and is not a form of action.

When a situation is beyond your control, it is important to find a method that allows  your mind to rest from the stresses and learn to let them go.  One of the most common sources of stress is dwelling on past mistakes; try to use these experiences as a valuable life lesson and realize nobody is perfect.  A positive outlook is the best tool to have in your coping toolbox, but find other outlets that allow you to do what you love and find enjoyment in life.

Hobbies enrich our lives and let us break away from the stresses of life.  Whether you decide to join a gym, read a new book, take up gardening, or enroll in an art class, do something that is just for you.

These coping techniques will save your sanity and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by the inevitable stresses of life.