Where to get help for stress?

According to WebMD, 50% of psychological disorders are attributed to stress, while 43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects due to stress. The effects of stress cost U.S. industries more than $300 billion annually. For these reasons, stress is not something to take lightly or minimize. It is important to recognize the signs of stress, make lifestyle or career changes, and intervene as soon as possible to reduce the negative impact it can have on physical and mental health. Various cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms can arise, some of which include being easily irritated or frustrated, feeling overwhelmed, difficulty with concentration or relaxation, lethargy, headaches, upset stomach, insomnia, loss of libido, constant worry, forgetfulness, racing thoughts, poor judgment, appetite changes, procrastination, self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, and fidgeting.

The good news is that many resources, techniques, and help are available to alleviate stress and its negative impact. For instance, meditation, breathing exercises, grounding exercises, mindfulness practices, yoga, tai chi, and other practices can help reduce stress. Mindfulness and presence in each moment allow us to act creatively rather than reactivity and from a place of fear or fight or flight response. When we are consumed with the past or future, we are less likely to fully meet each moment with awareness, presence, and grace. Another important aspect of addressing or minimizing stress is identifying major stressors and eliminating unnecessary stress, re-prioritizing and examining whether everything you do is necessary or if there are any tasks you can let go of or say no to.  Try to avoid unnecessary stress, including stressful people or situations, carve time out for rest and relaxation, control your environment and make changes to reduce stress, express your feelings rather than holding them in, and be willing to compromise or ask for help.

Another powerful tool for managing stress is monitoring cognitive distortions, irrational thoughts, and perfectionistic tendencies. Journaling or working with a professional counselor can help you identify how your thought patterns or past traumatic experiences magnify stress. As you become aware of these unconscious repetitive thoughts, you can begin to observe and deliberately choose how you speak to yourself and respond to events in the world. The relationship you have with yourself is the most important as it influences all other relationships. Radical acceptance and mindfulness can also help you practice accepting things outside of your control, help you reframe problems, and see from a larger, more compassionate perspective. Professional support is available for individuals seeking help with stress.