Healthy Living
Brought to you by: Community Partner Compact, www.compact2020.com
Stress is a normal part of life and is the body’s reaction to pressure from a certain situation or event. A person can react to stress physically, mentally, or emotionally. Everyone deals with stress at some point in life. Maybe it’s the pandemic, your job, a family illness, or money troubles causing stress. According to a recent study, about half of Americans say they are dealing with moderate stress. Here are four tips to help reduce stress anxiety.
1. Focus on positive things
2. Exercise and eat healthy
3. Stay alcohol and drug free
4. Talk about your experience and feelings
Chronic Stress. The physical effects of stress do not usually last long. However, some people find themselves in a constant state of heightened alertness known as chronic stress. When someone is under chronic stress, it begins to affect their physical or mental health. Chronic stress increases the risk of developing health problems including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and a weakened immune system. Chronic stress can make functioning daily more challenging. The first step in dealing with chronic stress is recognizing and admitting it exists. Next, find time to develop and implement strategies to manage stress. Social support from family and friends can also be a helpful tool.
Stress Triggers. Being aware of what triggers your stress increases your ability to either prevent stress or to more effectively handle it. If you often experience stress, we encourage you to take some time to consider what tends to set it off for you. See if there are some things within your control to manage better. Recognize that some triggers are beyond your control. While these challenges might not have easy solutions, you can still learn and grow from the experience. It can teach you to look honestly at situations, experience the emotions a situation brings up, and search within yourself for answers. This process can bring surprisingly positive outcomes.
It is essential for parents to model effective stress management and coping skills. How can you help your child develop a healthy relationship with stress and avoid stress overload?
- Teach your child that stress is normal and healthy and can be handled in a positive manner if given the tools.
- Allow your child to express his or her feelings.
- Promote good nutrition and exercise during early years so they become habits for a lifetime.
- Teach them the value of forgiveness for themselves and others.
For more helpful information from Compact, visit Facebook @Compact2020 or call 205-605-1827. To read more articles like this one, visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/COMPACT. †
