Does your stomach feel like it is constantly in knots? Stress not only wears your body down physically, it also threatens your mental well being. Stressors can be major life events or day-to-day pressures.
Major stressors include: moving, leaving school, getting married, having a baby, changing jobs, divorce, illness, experiencing losses.
Daily stressors include: being stuck in traffic, conflicts at work, conflicts with family members, deadlines and multiple work demands, the demands of family and work life, the fast pace of modern life.
Stress may be taking its toll if you start to notice the following symptoms:
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- You have difficulty eating or digesting your food
- Your muscles feel sore and tense all the time
- You say no to social events because you’re too tired or busy
- Co-workers, friends or family members are asking if you are feeling okay
Here are three strategies that can help you deal with stress:
- Exercise daily for 15 to 20 minutes. This can be accomplished by going for a walk, working out at the gym, swimming, golfing or another activity that you enjoy.
- Learn to relax. Try deep breathing, visual imagery, meditation, letting go of negative thoughts, chanting, or getting out into nature or another peaceful, quiet setting. Practice these techniques for 5 to 10 minutes twice daily.
- Talk over your situation with a trained mental health professional, who can help you devise personalized strategies that fit your needs and lifestyle.
Sue Cook, RSW, CCC, MEd Counselling, BAFN, CYC
Sue started working in this profession in the early 1980s and has had the opportunity and privilege of assisting thousands of people. She has experience in the public sector working in education, non-profit and government agencies. She has run her own private practice since 2000 and expanded in 2007, inviting others to join her business.
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OMG susan…..I have just done 2 of major stressors, and am doing reasonably well back in Ontario here. thought you would have gone back to BC? Darlene
Hello Darlene, it is great to hear from you. Good for you that you have gone through 2 major stressors and you are doing well. You must have good coping stratigies and continue to take care of yourself.
I am in Ontario right now building the Family TLC business. Thank you for reading our blog and let me know if there are any topics you would like to know more about.
Warm Regards Sue Cook