Dealing with Stress
Stress is a reaction to a situation where a person feels anxious or threatened. Stress can be positive or negative depending on the situation. For example, a wedding can be a source of positive stress. Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right support can help reduce stressful feelings and symptoms.
After a traumatic event, people may have strong and lasting reactions. The symptoms may be physical or emotional. Common reactions to a stressful event can include:
- Disbelief, shock, and numbness
- Feeling sad, frustrated, and helpless
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Headaches, back pains, and stomach problems
- Smoking or use of alcohol or drugs
Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress
- Take care of yourself
- Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
- Exercise
- Sleep/rest
- Take a break
- Talk to others
- Share your feelings with someone you trust
- Avoid drugs and alcohol
- These can make additional problems and increase the stress you are already feeling
- Recognize when you need more help
- If problems continue talk to your healthcare provider
Tags: coping, facts, prevention, stress, symptoms