As part of my job, I encourage people to practice healthy time management and stress management. Clearly, I have fallen victim to NOT practicing what I preach. I would like to say without hesitation, that I have not experienced first-hand how life responsibilities and demands can quickly create feelings of stress. That would be a lie. I am keenly aware of the warning signs and symptoms related to increased stress in my life. Like many people, I sometimes choose not to listen to my body’s cues.
Headaches and muscle tension are symptoms I experience when I am overwhelmed. The Cleveland Clinic identifies these other physical symptoms related to stress:
- Dizziness or a general feeling of “being out of it.”
- General aches and pains
- Grinding teeth, clenched jaw
- Headaches
- Indigestion or acid reflux symptoms
- Increase in or loss of appetite
- Muscle tension in neck, face, or shoulders
- Problems sleeping
- Racing heart
- Cold and sweaty palms
- Tiredness or exhaustion
- Trembling/shaking
- Weight gain or loss
- Upset stomach and/or diarrhea
- Sexual difficulties
Do you know how stress affects you? I encourage you to take some time to identify the signs and symptoms you experience related to stress. Once you know your own warning signs, it will be easier to manage stress. There are a variety of ways to cope with stress. The key is choosing what works for you and what fits your lifestyle. The Mayo Clinic offers these stress management tips:
- Get regular physical activity
- Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, or massage
- Keep a sense of humor
- Spend time with family and friends
- Set aside time for hobbies, such as reading a book or listening to music
If you practice healthy stress management techniques but your symptoms continue or worsen, please seek assistance from a healthcare professional. If you or a loved one is having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). It is available to anyone. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and all calls are confidential.
Written by: Lorrissa Dunfee, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Belmont County, dunfee.54@osu.edu
Reviewed by: Misty Harmon, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Perry County, harmon.416@osu.edu
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11874-stress
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987
Photo Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/clause-law-flood-stress-burnout-3213670/
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