How to Deal With Stress
How’s your stress level?
Everyone occasionally has that feeling of physical or emotional tension that stems from an event or thought and leaves you with a sense of frustration, anger, or nervousness. Stress is normal and it is how your body reacts to something that feels like a threat or a challenge. In small amounts, stress helps you to get things done or avoid danger. But chronic stress can take a toll on you emotionally, physically, and mentally. The insidious part of chronic stress is that you can become accustomed to it and, over time, may not even notice that it is happening.
There are many sources of stress, including work, financial strain, or family concerns. If you are caring for an older loved one, caregiver burnout is real. While worrying about your loved one’s safety and well being, you can become overwhelmed, losing sleep as you struggle with decisions and questions.
When your body is in a state of stress, hormones are released which tense your muscles, increase your pulse and heighten the alertness in your brain. In the moment, your body protects itself this way. But when you’re in a constant state of alertness, even when there is no danger present, you can be at risk for health problems like:
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep disruption
- Depression or anxiety
The National Institute of Mental Health has some tips to help cope with stress. Feeling overwhelmed? Try one of these techniques to become grounded again:
- Limit your caffeine including coffee, tea, or soda.
- Discover a sleep routine that works and stick with it.
- Incorporate regular exercise. Even a 15 minute walk can help clear your mind.
- Practice mindful meditation or other relaxation techniques.
- Recognize negative thoughts and patterns, then redirect to more positive thoughts.
- Stay engaged with family and friends. Ask for help when you need to discuss things.
Remember to seek help to solve the concerns that keep you up at night. CarePatrol is honored to help provide peace of mind to families when senior living options are needed. We understand the senior living space and can recommend the right communities for your loved one. Reach out today to learn more and get that good night’s sleep you’ve been missing.