Friday

Surviving Stress!


The term stress refers to the psychological and physiological responses we experience when faced with demands or threats.  These demands or threats, real or imagined, create a heightened emotional or physical tension which can be beneficial when facing a challenge.  Once the challenge is resolved, the state of heightened tension is alleviated.  

Stress becomes problematic when heightened responses become chronic, resulting in a constant state of tension which can lead to significant health problems. Dr. Hans Selye developed his theory of stress in the 1950's, defining stress as the mind and body's total response to an internal or external stimulus, called the stressor.

The top sources of stress for Americans include money, work, the economy, family responsibilities, relationships, family health problems, and personal health concerns, according to a national survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA, 2012). A 2007 APA research study reported that individuals working in education and health service industries experienced higher levels of stress than those working in other professions, with four out of ten people experiencing extreme levels of stress.

worker's characteristics and the work environment have been identified as the primary causes of job-related stress. 

Stressors for mental health professionals include:

  • Time Pressures
  • Negative Colleagues and/or Supervisors
  • Organizational Politics
  • Excessive Paperwork
  • Type of Clinical Setting
  • Role Conflicts
  • Personality Traits
  • Coping Style

    The "A" Strategies listed below may prove to be helpful in decreasing stress levels and increasing wellness:
    • Awareness - Recognizing your top stressors and mental/physical symptoms of stress.  Many people feel stressed out but don't take the time to explore what problem is creating their chronic stress.
    • Ask for help - If you are experiencing negative symptoms due to stress, don't be afraid to ask for help!
    • Agree to Disagree - Sometimes it is difficult to stand up for ourselves.  If you are uncomfortable with something, it is okay to disagree.  Stuffing down feelings brought up by stressful experiences can hurt you emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
    • Activities - Participate in activities that help you relax, improve your self-esteem, increase your knowledge, and make you feel happy!
    • Anticipate - Once you have identified your top stressors, work on solutions to help minimize your level of stress.  Planning ahead may be one of your best strategies to manage stress!
     
    Choose Wellness!