Everyone is bound to have a bad day, hit a rough patch, or just put too much on our plates, but it can be hard to know when it’s time to seek help for anxiety and stress. You could have a deadline at work, fear of layoffs, an unexpected move, relationship problems, to name a few. We all know that life comes with its ups and downs. Here are a few basic coping mechanisms to try on your own, and when to know it’s time to seek help for anxiety and stress.
BASIC COPING MECHANISMS FOR SELF-CARE
Basic relaxation techniques – simple deep breathes or yoga class
Physical activity – walking, gardening, or anything that gets you outside and moving
Making time for yourself – finding something for yourself, a hobby, crafts, or taking time to read a book
Rest – make sure you’re getting enough sleep and take a break from unnecessary obligations
Journaling – getting your thoughts on paper great way to express and process your emotions
Regardless of what you have going on in your life, it is important to continue to practice these self-care techniques. They are a great way to maintain balance as well and provide additional support when you’re going through something more difficult.
Many, if not all of us, will face situations more difficult than life’s ups and downs. It is important to recognize the difference between conflicts we can resolve on our own, and those we are less equipped to handle. If the above coping mechanisms are not proving successful, it may be time to seek additional support from a therapist.
5 SIGNS IT’S TIME TO SEEK HELP FOR ANXIETY AND STRESS
Affecting Your Ability to Do Your Job
Whether you’re a professional working outside of the home in a high-stress (or low-stress) field, performing remote work, staying at home with your children, or as a caregiver, do you find yourself unable to perform tasks? Are you feeling unmotivated or unable to concentrate? Does anxiety keep you from keeping a clear head? Have once-easy tasks become stressful?
Changes in Your Sleeping Habits
Have you gone from sleeping well to struggling with falling or staying asleep? Or is it the opposite? You may always be tired and just want to lie down or nap when you should normally be awake and alert.
Changes in Your Eating Habits
Maybe you’ve lost your appetite and struggle to eat, or you’re losing weight, and energy levels are plummeting. Or on the contrary, do you find eating your only source of comfort and spend time alone eating instead of connecting with others? Maybe it’s caused you to gain weight or for your health to suffer.
Disconnecting from Others
Do you find yourself saying “No” to plans with family and friends because you don’t have the energy or desire to leave the house? Not just large events but coffee with a friend, or your children’s sporting events or recitals. Have you stopped enjoying activities that you would typically look forward to or be excited about?
Feelings of Harming Yourself
Withdrawing from others and thinking they are better off without you signifies more than just having a bad day. Do you see yourself as removed from your family and friends and suggest they continue to actively participate in day-to-day life without you?
By enlisting the support of a therapist, you are giving yourself the tools to be successful. It is not about the size of the problem but about your ability to find resolution. A therapist can help you identify the root of your stress and anxiety, as well as give you additional methods to work through them.
If you are experiencing any of these feelings, seeking help from a therapist should be your immediate next step. You may find that regular sessions with a therapist can lessen extreme swings of stress and anxiety that you have regularly experienced.
