Dealing with too much stress

What is stress?

Stress can be thought of as a response by the brain and body respond to any demand (1).

Some stress is useful in helping us perform in life, achieve goals, grow, etc.

Too much stress can harm both physical and emotional health in many different ways.

What does too much stress feel like?

Different people respond to stress in different ways.

 What are some common emotional responses to excessive  stress?

Too much stress can cause:

• Changes in mood, sleep, irritability, body aches (3).
• Changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, etc.

What are some unhealthy ways of dealing with too much stress?

• Increasing use of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, drugs.
• Unhealthy eating habits.
• Increased behaviors of isolation/avoidance. Too much time away from the problem might make the problem worse by causing you to miss deadlines, meetings, assignments, etc.

What are some healthy ways  of dealing with too much stress?

The American Psychological Association’s help center suggests (2):

• Take a break. A few minutes away from what is stressing you might help you have a new perspective or give you a chance to practice stress management techniques. (Links below).
• Smile and laugh. This might help relieve some tension and improve the situation.
• Get social support from others or a counselor. Talking to someone might help you feel better, collect your thoughts, gain new insights into the situation.

The following are adapted from National Library of Medicine (3) stress management page:

• Recognize and accept the things you can’t change.  This can help you let go and not get upset. For instance, you might not change rush hour traffic, but you can look for ways to relax during your commute, such as listening to a podcast or book.
• Avoid stressful triggers when possible. For example, if your family squabbles during the holidays, give yourself a breather and go out for a walk or drive.
• Exercise. Regular exercise or physical activity most days for about 30 minutes can help your brain release chemicals that make you feel good, and help you release built-up energy or frustration.
• Change your outlook. Are you being too negative? Work on more positive attitude toward challenges by replacing negative thoughts with more positive ones.
• Do something you enjoy preferably daily even if it’s just for a few minutes. Examples include reading a good book, listening to music, watching a favorite movie, or having dinner with a friend, a new hobby or class.
• Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. This can help you think more clearly, and have more energy.
• Eat enough AND eat healthy foods. This can help fuel your body and mind. Skip the high-sugar snack foods and load up on vegetables, fruits, raw nuts, lean proteins, good fats.
• Learn to say no. Set limits if you feel over-scheduled, cut back or defer where you can. Ask others for help when you need it.

Are there useful stress management resources on campus?

• OSU Student Life Counseling and Consultation Service
• OSU Stress and Anxiety Clinic
• OSU Student Wellness Center for wellness coaching and related services.
• OSU Wilce Student Health center
• OSU Wexner Medical Center offers relaxation skills
• Check out SMART Lab

Anything else?

Other ideas to manage stress:

• https://u.osu.edu/emotionalfitness/2014/08/15/stress-and-what-to-do-about-it/
• https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-management.htm

Gratitude and mindfulness exercises to manage stress:

• https://u.osu.edu/emotionalfitness/2015/12/

Benefits of Play and Leisure:

• https://u.osu.edu/emotionalfitness/2016/09/28/study-play-and-leisures-impact-on-mood-stress-and-wellbeing/

Smartphone apps for mental health: https://u.osu.edu/emotionalfitness/2017/05/

 

What are some signs that YOU are under too much stress?

What healthy strategies have you tried?

Which ones work for you to help manage stress?

By R. Ryan S Patel DO, FAPA OSU-CCS Psychiatrist

Disclaimer: This article is intended to be informative only. It is advised that you check with your own physician/mental health provider before implementing any changes. With this article, the author is not rendering medical advice, nor diagnosing, prescribing, or treating any condition, or injury; and therefore claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or injury caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented.

References:

1. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/stress/index.shtml
2. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/manage-stress.aspx
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001942.htm