Less Stress & More Living | Stress Awareness Month

April is Stress Awareness Month... 30 days devoted to living a life stress free with a focus on relaxation.  We all have stress and we will never be able to change that, but what we can do is focus on how we react to certain stressors and make an active change to take time for ourselves, enjoy a happy life, and indulge in relaxation.  

When it comes to stress, there are a lot of common misconceptions and myths.  So let's talk about some of the truths and what you really need to know about stress:

• Stress Motivates - Myth

We often think of stress as a way to get us to do something, such as finish a work project or study for a test, but this is not entirely true.  Although it may have some factor in our actions, setting goals, prioritizing, and being organized is the best way to motivate you to do something without that ill feeling being involved.  

• No Symptoms = No Stress - Myth

Stress is a big factor in our overall health.  Hypertension or high cholesterol may be caused by stress but are known as "silent killers" because they have no known symptoms.  People who encounter a lot of stress are also at a higher risk for heart attacks and stroke.  So lack of sleep and weight gain are not the only things you need to look out for anymore.

• Alcohol Will Help You De-Stress - Myth

Contrary to popular thinking of having a drink to relax, according to a recent study, alcohol actually tells your body to release cortisol, the most common stress hormone.  So be careful to not turn to a liquid friend when you start to feel the pressure.

• Everyone Experiences the Same Symptoms - Myth

Although no one can avoid stress altogether, the way our body physically reacts to stress can vary.  Some may have poor digestion while others may lack focus or suffer from mild depression.  It is important to know your body and recognize the signs of high stress periods so that you can respond appropriately to combat any symptoms you may experience. 

• Stress and Anxiety are the Same Thing - Myth

Although there are many simularities, the two are very different.  Anxiety disorders are diagnosable mental disorders that are characterized by fear and unease, often without a known cause.  It usually worsens with time and will not go away on it's own.  Stress on the other hand can be lessened with time and you are usually resillient to the associated symptoms.  Stress almost always comes from an event in which case you may be nervous or uneasy, but not afraid.

• Stress is Avoidable - Myth

Although stress is everywhere and cannot be avoided, we are able to control certain situations by responding differently to certain stressors.  It is important to learn what brings about high stress situations for you and what are the best ways you can react and respond in those situations.  Also it is important to have a good relaxation techniques in place.  Having 15 minutes during each day to focus on something you love is important to live a happy life.  This may be anything from hobbies, exercise, reading, or playing with a pet (We definitely have something to learn from cats about how to relax!), but you should have at least one thing a day that makes you happy and enjoy life.

What do you do to combat the symptoms associated with stress?  Have you heard any other myths regarding stress, whether they are common or not? 

oxox,
Em