April is National Stress Awareness Month, and Comanche County Memorial Hospital is committed to promoting the importance of mental and emotional well-being for our staff, patients, and the community. Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can negatively impact our physical and mental health. This blog post aims to raise awareness about stress and equip you with helpful tips for managing it effectively.
Recognizing the Signs of Stress
In order to manage the stress in our life, first we need to recognize it. Some common signs of stress are:
- Headaches, muscle tension, or stomachaches
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Changes in eating habits
- Social withdrawal or isolation
Mental Health America (MHA) also offers a helpful tool:
Stress Screener: This online tool can help you assess your current stress levels and help you identify areas for improvement.
Developing Health Coping Mechanisms
Everyone experiences stress differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Here are a few things that we recommend to help you manage stress.
Mind-Body Practices: Meditation, yoga, or deep breathing have been scientifically proven to reduce stress and even promote relaxation.
Physical Activity: Exercise is a great stress reliever. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Healthy Habits: Prioritize good sleep, a balanced diet, and consume little alcohol and caffeine. These routines lay the groundwork for better stress management.
Connect with Others: Social support is vital. Tell your close friends and family that you’re feeling stressed, or even join a support group.
Make Time for Yourself: Take some time to enjoy your favorite activities, like reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re facing difficulty handling stress on your own, you are not alone. There is no shame in getting help from a therapist or a counselor.
We Are Here For You
Sometimes stress can feel overwhelming, and that’s okay. It’s important to know you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or think you might benefit from professional help, reach out to your primary care physician. They can be a great resource for managing stress and supporting your mental well-being.
Don’t have a primary care physician yet? We’d love to connect you with compassionate doctors who understand your needs. By taking action to prioritize your mental health, you’re taking a big step towards a happier and healthier you. We’re here to support you on that journey.
Resources:
https://hr.nih.gov/working-nih/civil/national-stress-awareness-month
https://mhanational.org/get-involved/stress-screener
Disclaimer:
The Comanche County Memorial Hospital website does not provide specific medical advice for individual cases. Comanche County Memorial Hospital does not endorse any services obtained through information provided on this site, articles on the site or any links on this site.
Use of the information obtained by the Comanche County Memorial Hospital website does not replace medical advice given by a qualified medical provider to meet the medical needs of our readers or others.
While content is frequently updated, medical information changes quickly. Information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. For questions or concerns, please contact us at contact@ccmhhealth.com.