Breaking the Stress Cycle: Empowering Yourself to Manage Stress This Awareness Month

 

 One of the most serious public health issues we face is stress and poor mental health. Sadly, even if this is true, we are not taking its implications seriously enough. We continue to draw distinctions between mental and physical health. But the fact is that they cannot be separated since they are two sides of the same coin. There can be no health without mental wellness, and stress can cause a variety of physical issues. Stress affects millions of people worldwide, and it is harmful to our health and well-being. Many studies have found that 74% of the general population has experienced stress that has left them feeling unable to cope (Mental Health Foundation).

Since 1992, Stress Awareness Month has been observed in April; a time of the year to raise awareness about the causes and consequences of stress and encourage stress-reduction techniques in the populace. The sole purpose of this observation is to motivate people to promote awareness of the causes and treatments for our modern-day stress epidemic.

What is Stress?

Stress is the sensation of being under undue mental or emotional strain. It is the body’s response to dealing with situations that are stressful or dangerous. This is referred to as a "fight or flight" reaction. Once a stressful situation or threat has passed, stress hormone levels return to normal. In these states, the body produces stress chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline.

Stress has a damaging impact on both physical and mental health; thus, it is critical to managing it. Physical concerns such as heart disease, insomnia, digestive issues, and immune system challenges, as well as more serious mental health illnesses such as anxiety and depression.

Stress Awareness Month strives to help people live happier, healthier lives by raising awareness about the impacts of stress and advocating stress-reduction practices. People are urged to examine their stress levels and identify the sources of stressors in their lives during Stress Awareness Month.

 

Childhood & Adolescent Stress:

A widespread emotion that affects children and adults alike, although in various ways. Childhood stress can happen in any situation when a child is required to adapt or adjust. Positive changes, such as the start of a new activity; can generate stress, while negative changes, such as illness or death in the family, are more typically associated with stress.

Children do not necessarily react to stress in the same way that adults do. Unlike adults, most children suffer stress when they are unable to cope with scary, unpleasant, or painful events. Negative self-perceptions, physical changes such as puberty, educational needs, social problems, significant life events such as moving or parental separation, family-related issues such as chronic illness and financial problems, and exposure to unsafe environments are all examples of stressors that can have an impact on children's mental health.

Sign & Symptoms of Stress in Kids:

Stress can cause physical symptoms such as shallow breathing, perspiration, racing heart, headaches, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, digestive issues, weight gain or loss, aches and pains, and a compromised immune system. The emotional and mental symptoms of stress include irritability, anger, withdrawal from social life, neglecting responsibilities, reduced efficiency, difficulty concentrating, and emotional distress such as sadness or tearfulness.

It is critical to assist youngsters in developing good stress-coping techniques as soon as these symptoms appear.

What can we do or what actions can we take?

Take actions that are required such as practicing relaxation techniques, engaging in physical activity, getting adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and seeking help from friends, family, or mental health specialists.

·      Discuss the impacts of stress: Let us aim together to decrease the stigma associated with stress by discussing it openly, freely, and truthfully with friends, family, and coworkers.

 ·     Share your means of coping mechanisms with your subordinates: Why not share something that has worked for you? It may benefit someone you care about, and in the meantime, it may help you divert your attention away from your own problems. To be vocal about our mental and emotional status with friends, families, coworkers, and professionals about stress and its repercussions.

 ·    Be good to those who are stressed and anxious:  The majority experience stress and anxiety in our lifetime so treat others going through it with compassion and empathy.

·      Look after yourself: We all need to think about self-care more. Take a short break from your day to unwind or do something you enjoy. Even if you're feeling anxious, don't forget to exercise and eat healthily. Dedicate time to reducing the stigma, guilt, and humiliation associated with mental health.

 

Activities That Can Have a Positive Impact on Mind Health

    The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there are numerous ways that can help people manage stress. According to the WHO, stress and mental health are inversely associated, therefore reducing stress is crucial to sustaining good mental health. As a result, individuals must prioritize their mental health and implement WHO-recommended practices.