How much stress is too much stress?
This is an interesting question and one that we certainly hear OFTEN. Stress in general can be the root cause for many of our clients to come to see us initially.
First, stress is a normal part of every day. Stress in some cases, is a very good thing. It would be unrealistic to try and remove stress from your life altogether. But here are some indicators that you may need some help in dealing effectively with stress in your life.
- Sleep interruption or insomnia
- Paranoid or heightened thoughts or concerns about your safety
- Negative effects on your relationships
- Turmoil at home or in your workplace due to any of the above
There are some steps you can take on your own to assist in stress management. Here are just a few you can start with:
- Get more rest. Try to calm your mind before bedtime with some light stretching, yoga or warm herbal, decaffeinated tea. Remove all devices from your sleeping area to encourage a more restful evening. Some people even find a shower before bedtime helps “wash” away the day and aids in relaxation before bedtime.
- Exercise. A brisk 15-minute walk can really help ease tension and allow you to relax with your thoughts, while increasing serotonin (the feel good chemical in your brain). Instead of eating lunch at your desk, get out and take a quick walk, especially on days when the outdoors feels refreshing.
- Make a list of the things that are stressing you out. Determine which of these things you have control over. Pick perhaps one, and choose just to focus on what you can indeed do to aid this particular issue or concern. Remember, that the stressor’s you can’t control, such as other people’s behavior, should be something you focus on letting go of.
- Seek Professional Help. If you find that these aren’t working for you, or that you really feel you need the help of a professional, please call our office. We are happy to help you, even if that means finding a professional for you that is not a part of our practice. We do this all the time. We accept many insurance carriers, and understand the importance of good, quality, affordable care. If we don’t participate in your insurance plan, we have many alternatives to helping you, even finding other therapists that do honor your insurance plans. Start living a better life, a less stressed life, now.
We answer your questions weekly. If you, or someone you know has a question they would like answered, feel free to ask by emailing your question to us at: clientservices@pcgtexas.com
Pace Counseling Group is a professional counseling firm located in San Antonio, Texas. We are focused on continuously improving the quality of life for our clients and their families. To learn more, visit us at Pace Counseling Group or call (210) 481-3727.