As modern humans, there’s a lot of pressure on us to be a number of things to a number of people: husband/wife, father/mother, housekeeper, career professional, lover, babysitter and more. Sometimes, it’s impossible to do it all. As a result, we can suffer from stress, depression, anxiety and other ailments, including what’s known as a Superman/Superwoman Complex. Some stress is normal in everyday life, but too much stress is unhealthy. You know you’re under too much stress when you:
• Can’t sleep as a result of the stress.
• Can’t eat.
• Can’t focus on everyday tasks.
• Have no interest in sex or recreational activities you normally enjoy.
• Feel pent up, on the edge, or about to explode.
• Feel unwell or show physical signs of stress: losing your hair, developing acne, gaining or losing weight, etc.
• Feel otherwise unable to perform at optimum level.
Some of us are able to handle stress better than others. Unchecked stress will eventually manifest into a range of health issues. From back pain to headaches, sexual impotence and major depression, stress can leave you feeling down in the dumps and helpless.
There are many ways to combat stress; you must find those best suited for you. Remember, you can’t take care of others until and unless you take care of yourself.
• Find a way to vent. Talk to a good friend about your problems and/or stress factors. Write in a journal. Get more exercise. Go to a spa or create a spa at home. Have more sex. Do more of the things you enjoy so your stress factors become less prominent. Take some time just to do you.
• Avoid multitasking. Try to handle one job at a time and work at a reasonable pace. No matter what you do, there will always be more to be done. Take one thing at a time. Regardless of what you are able to do, everything else will work itself out if you keep a clear head.
• Learn how to delegate. Too often, we as women try to do everything. The reality is, we can’t. Ask others to pick up the slack when you’re too tired or overloaded. Leave certain chores undone. Do whatever you have to do to alleviate being overwhelmed. At the end of the day, you’ll feel less stress and be more productive for it.
• Focus on slowing down. Relaxing helps to reduce stress and lowers the risk of health problems, including high blood pressure.
• Acknowledge when you need help. It can be a sign of strength, not weakness to say: “I can’t deal with this by myself; I’m going to need some support.” Acknowledging you need support is the first step in getting the help you need. No matter the problem, there are people out there willing to help you. Take some time to find them.
Your Mental Health
Conquering Inner Beasts
We all have beasts to conquer, some personal and some public. Some of our beasts are internal; others are external. Many of these beasts stay with us a lifetime. No matter what beast you're fighting, it doesn't have to control your life. Inner strength, divine guidance and support from others can help you to triumph. It is up to each of us to know ourselves and our limitations. What's more, it's important to acknowledge when help is needed. And seek help without delay.
Depression and Anxiety
It is perfectly normal to feel down or anxious at some time or another. When you’re not in the best of moods, you have to honor those feelings before you can get past them. It isn’t normal to suffer from long bouts of depression or anxiety however. Long term depression and anxiety are caused by internal conditions which are treatable. Early diagnosis and intervention can help you feel better.
No matter how bad things may seem in your life, there is always a solution - even if you can't see it at the moment. Unfortunately, some people do not realize help is available and they choose the ultimate way out. If you are experiencing delusional, homicidal or suicidal thoughts; if you feel your life is worthless or without any hope, you need to get help right away. Some mental illnesses are caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be remedied with medication. Sometimes, getting support with parts of your situation can make all the difference. You have a full, rewarding life ahead of you, no matter what circumstances you're in. With a bit of help, any problem can be resolved.
If you suspect you may be suffering from depression or anxiety, see your doctor or contact the Mental Health Crisis Hotline at: (800) 543-3638.
You can also contact:
Mental Health America: (800) 969-6642 or visit: www.mentalhealthamerica.net
Exercising can help combat depression and anxiety. When you exercise, your body produces endorphins, which create a natural “high”. If you are physically able, try to exercise daily, preferably in the morning to start your day. Not only will your mood brighten, but you’ll improve your physical health.
Aromatherapy and Herbal Supplements are another way to combat a low mood. Certain essential oils like lavender and cinnamon are known to brighten spirits. There are also calming herbs such as Kava and Chamomile that are commonly used in teas. Before embarking on a holistic remedy, always check with your doctor, nutritionist and/or a licensed herbalist to ensure you use your remedies safely. Some herbs can interfere with, or increase the potency of prescription medications.
Whenever you feel nervousness and anxiety taking over, you can alleviate the stress with this simple, yet effective controlled-breathing exercise:
Stand or sit still in a comfortable place. Close your eyes. Focus on your breathing and heartbeat. Inhale slowly and deeply, filling your entire chest cavity with air. Imagine you are floating. Hold the air and count to three. Exhale slowly, concentration on the beating of your heart. Do this ten times, relaxing your body with each exhale. Repeat until you feel yourself become calmer.
Drug Abuse
If you have substance abuse problems, the time is NOW to conquer them. Attempting to escape your life and problems with drugs and alcohol is not a solution; it is a dangerous venture. Substance abuse only feeds an illusion; when the substances wear off, your problems are still facing you. Chemical substances are incredibly powerful beasts; they change your body, alter your mind and create a constant state of dependency. They’re always hungry and they feed off of your fears and insecurities. As you become weaker, they grow even stronger—eventually destroying your mind, body and soul. Your life is far too precious to ruin. No matter what’s going on, you can find a solution without resorting to drugs. You can find meaning in your life and obtain happiness if you just reach out to someone. Talk to a friend. Confide in a family member. Reach out to a pastor or health care professional. There is nothing wrong with needing help; everyone finds themselves in need of some kind of help sooner or later. You have to power to conquer!
For help, contact the organizations listed below.
Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America: (800) 54- CADCA
D.A.R.E America: (800) 223-DARE
www.theantidrug.com: Office of National Drug Control Policy. Parenting brochure available.
National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information: (301) 468-2600
The Partnership for a Drug Free America: www.drugfree.america.org
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Simple things that can help brighten a mood
Take a hot bath.
Buy yourself a special gift
Read an inspirational book.
Engage in an activity you enjoy.
Go to church and listen to a sermon.
Take up Tai Chi, Yoga or Dance.
Buy yourself flowers.
Read the Psalms.
Surround yourself with positive people.
Watch one of your favorite comedies.
Call someone you love. Just to chat.
Volunteer at a local animal shelter.
Help someone else in need.
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For informational purposes only. No portion of this article is intended to replace the evaluation, care or advice of a health care professional. The author makes no claims or recommendations whatsoever as to any illness, treatment or cure. Read more...
Tannis Blackman is a certified dance instructor and health enthusiast. She is the author of several books, including The Mystical Seductress Handbook and writes numerous articles for Alight Transmedia.
© 202 Alight. © 2022 Tannis Blackman.
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