No one likes to believe they are susceptible to stress. This is especially true in the U.S. We might have an overworked self-image of rugged independence to thank for that. As a result, we don't like to admit to anything that could be viewed as a weakness.
That is a most unhealthy framework for a long and happy life. We are fragile creatures by nature. We are susceptible to many things that lie well beyond our ability to control. Simply slipping on a wet surface can lead to anything from a sprained ankle to a broken bone. If we fall and hit our head against a hard surface in the process, we could be in for something much worse.
Our emotions are just as fragile as our bones. And Contrary to popular opinion, we have far less control over them than we think. We can control our reactions to emotions. But the emotions, themselves, are activated automatically by external stressors.
One of the biggest external stressors being shared by almost everyone on the planet is the coronavirus. Realize it or not, it is causing you stress, and a lot of it. You might be very good at compartmentalizing such things. But your body still reacts. Here are a few signs that the stress is starting to get the better of you:
An Increase in Self-Medication
Technically, taking a couple of Tylenol for back pain is self-medication. We all do it for various reasons. There is nothing wrong with simple things like that. However, if you have a chronic problem that forces you to take even the mildest medication to deal with, you should see a health professional to make sure it is not something more serious.
Women often find themselves more stressed due to the added roles and responsibilities they have. Everyone depends on wives and mothers to fix everything all the time. They have a constant load of stress to balance. Covid only adds to the pile.
It is understandable when women self-medicate. But adding alcohol and stronger drugs to the list of things you consider medication is problematic. Addiction is often the result of stress-related self-medication. Fortunately, help for women's addiction issues is easy to come by.
There is nothing to be ashamed of and you are most definitely not alone. No one is in a position to judge. If you find yourself increasing self-medication as a coping mechanism, it might be a sign that the stressors in your life are stronger than you think.
Increased Temper
You love your partner and you love your kids. No one questions that. But sometimes, they just get on your last nerve. That is when you reflexively snap back at them because you just can't take it anymore. That's life. Don't beat yourself up. It happens to us all.
However, when that reaction starts happening more frequently, it is time to assess your stress.There are simple ways to calm your stress. You don't have to give in to the moment once you learn to see the signs that you are coming to a boil. Hear are just a few well-recognized de-stressors:
-
Stop what you are doing and practice deep breathing.
-
Meditate.
-
Do yoga or other stretching routines.
-
Reduce rather than reach for stimulants like caffeine and nicotine.
No one wants to be angry all the time. It effects you and the people around you. That is not the person you want to be. If you find yourself having increased feelings of rage, it might be time to see a professional before critical relationships suffer.
Chronic Pain That Has No Direct Cause
According to U.S.News & World Report, depression can be a source for chronic pain. Stress-related pain is still real pain. It is one of the strongest proofs that our emotions are a part of our physical system.
Wishing the pain away doesn't work. It is not a mind over matter kind of thing. Stress causes real medical problems that require real medical treatments. Just be sure to avoid diagnosing and medicating yourself. Doctors are trained to diagnose this type of problem. If necessary, they can refer you to a specialist. Listen to your body when it is shouting in pain. It might be telling you to check your stress levels and see a professional.
Stress is a silent and invisible foe that stalks everyone. Seek professional help if you find you are increasing self-medication, becoming more angry, and suffering from chronic pain with no apparent cause.
