Let’s face it, things aren’t normal, and probably won’t be for a long time. When things are unexpected and not routine, it can bring a lot of stress. Maybe you’re trying to homeschool the kids. Maybe you’re trying to work from home. Maybe you miss friends and family and spending time together.
Prolonged stress can take a toll on your emotional and physical health, but there are some things you can do to keep stress from getting out of control.
First, recognize you are not alone.
Most of us are trying to figure out how to navigate these new (stormy) waters. So your neighbor, co-worker, and best friend are probably all feeling the same sense of lack of control.
Know it is OK to ask for help
It’s hard sometimes to ask for help, but we all need it at some point in time. If you are struggling with things in your life, know that most people not only want to help, but it brings them joy, meaning and purpose during these uncertain times, knowing their actions are helping others. Let your neighbor pick up some groceries. Allow your daughter to fill your car with gas. It makes them feel good, too. Don’t steal peoples’ blessing of helping you.
Focus on the good and provide acts of kindness
It’s easy to get wrapped up in things that seem negative in your life and the world around you. Sometimes you need to just turn off the news and close down facebook. Instead, email someone you know who may be alone and scared just to let them know you are thinking of them. Write thank you notes to the people who have helped you. If you do go on social media, write positive messages.
Start your day off in a positive way
Avoid news on your TV, phone or tablet first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Do your normal routine in the morning: showering, coffee, brushing your teeth. Next, write down three things you are grateful for—keep a gratitude journal. This helps to set the tone for the day. Purposefully engaging in an “unplugged” morning routine and practicing gratitude before turning on the news will help to start your day in a positive direction and allow you better emotional resources to cope with the inevitable stress you’ll watch on or read in the news.
Get enough sleep!
Nothing will make small challenges in your life seem bigger than not getting enough sleep! Your body needs time to repair and refresh, so make sure you give it time to do so. Save that last episode of the show you are bingeing for tomorrow. Don’t eat high fat foods before bed. And practice deep breathing to help get you off to the land of nod.
if you are still feeling stressed, click here for some more ideas from MD Anderson to try.
If you feel anxious and worry that things may be spinning out of control, please call our offices and set up an appointment with your provider.
575.762.8055
