We all have stress. Did you know there are different kinds of stress? There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be. It is typically short term and subsides after the event. There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. This is called chronic or toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed and affect their bodily systems.
Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors. This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress – NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.
Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. What do you enjoy doing? Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy or makes you laugh. Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.
If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.
Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.
