Your wellness nugget – When is stress unhealthy?
Stress is thus a normal part of our lives and helps us to live and even to survive at times. But when is stress unhealthy and how do you cope with stress?
We all experience a measure of stress in our work, with our school tasks, at home as well as through our circumstances.
Stress is thus a normal part of our lives and helps us to live and even to survive at times.
But when is stress unhealthy and how do you cope with stress?
Here are a few symptoms of excessive stress:
• Irregular sleeping pattern and sleeping problems
• Irritation, anger rages or uncontrollable, overwhelming emotions e.g. anxiety or fear
• Increase of unhealthy habits e.g. alcohol and cigarettes (excessive overuse)
• Poor concentration
• Breathing problems
• A constant fight or flight reaction when there is no danger
If you have 2 or more symptoms you are struggling with long term, it may indicate that your stress levels are too high or that there may be an underlying problem.
What follows are a few coping skills that may decrease stress levels:
• A set routine for sleeping time and natural products e.g. Redormin to restore sleeping patterns (available at Dischem or Clicks)
• Daily writing or typing your emotions in a journal or talking with someone you trust
• Healthy eating habits
• Positive coping skills e.g. exercise, practicing a hobby or being there for someone by reaching out
• Concentration exercises e.g. playing chess or other activities that helps you to practice concentration
• Breathing techniques to inhale deeply and exhale slowly a few times
If the above coping skills do not help to decrease stress, it may be time to speak to professional counsellor, who can journey with you, to keep the stress levels balanced.
Written by: Me Carin Olwagen Psychological Counsellor, HPCSA registered, Evander Mpumalanga
For support: www.olwagen-counsellor.co.za/contact-us/
