What is stress?
Stress is a natural response to the challenges and demands of life. It’s our body’s way of protecting us by preparing us to face a threat or flee to safety. A little bit can be a good thing, motivating us to perform at our best. However, when stress becomes overwhelming, it can start to negatively impact our mental and physical health.
Stress is not an emotion but a response to physical or mental triggers. These triggers are unique to each person, and therapy can help you to understand why you respond the way that you do.
Everyone experiences varying degrees of stress, too, but your ability to cope depends on a number of factors, including: genetics, early life events, personality and social and economic circumstances.
When is Too Much Stress a Bad Thing?
While a certain amount of stress is normal and even beneficial, chronic stress can be detrimental. When it becomes constant and unmanageable, it can lead to a host of problems, including anxiety, depression, and physical illnesses.
Too much stress can affect your sleep, your relationships, and your overall sense of well-being. If you’re feeling perpetually overwhelmed, irritable, or exhausted, it might be time to take a closer look at your stress levels.
Stress is the trash of modern life; we all generate it but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.
-Danzae Pace
It is important to understand that stress happens, and it’s only a problem when it becomes a problem.
Recognising when stress is taking a toll on your life is the first step toward managing it. Here are some signs that you might need some extra support:
- Overwhelming feelings of anxiety or worry
- Feeling disconnected from friends or family
- Disrupted sleep or insomnia
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Digestive problems such as constipation, bloating or diarrhoea
- Heart palpitations, shallow breathing, twitching muscles
- Depressive moods or episodes
- Irritability, aggression, rage
- Sexual dysfunction
- Smoking, drinking, or taking drugs more often than normal
YES to some (all!) of the above?
I get it. And the best news? Therapy can help!
We’ll work together to understand the root causes of your issues and develop strategies to manage it effectively. Here’s what you can expect:
Exploration and Understanding: We’ll explore the sources of your stress and how they impact your life. This can involve discussing your current situation, past experiences, and underlying beliefs.
Skill Building: I’ll teach you practical skills such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and time management strategies. We’ll also work on developing healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms.
Support and Encouragement: Therapy is a safe space where you can express your feelings and concerns without judgment. I’ll provide you with the support and encouragement you need to make positive changes.
Tailored Approach: Every person is unique, and so is their experience with stress. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan that suits your specific needs and goals.
Therapy looks to address the triggers or reasons in your life that are causing you distress. Together, we will identify unhelpful thinking patterns, develop stress management skills, and implement stress relieving strategies.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If stress is affecting your quality of life, therapy can be a powerful tool to help you regain control and find a healthier, happier way to live.
What's One More Hard Thing, Amiright?
I understand that your time and energy are limited resources. That’s why I offer flexible scheduling options, including morning and evening availability, as well as in-person and online therapy session options.
Whether you want to chat from the comfort of your own home or have a face-to-face session, I’m here to make it work for you.
I am here to support you, cheer you on, and remind you that you’re doing an incredible job, even on the days when you feel like you’re barely keeping it together.
Okay, I'm in! Let's do it!
If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your stress, I’m here to help.
With a modern, relational approach, we’ll work together to find strategies that fit your life and personality.
You don’t have to face stress alone – let’s tackle it together and pave the way to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Contact me today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward better stress management.
Questions or just want to chat?
Yep, I totally get that.
This can feel like a big step you’re taking but you’re already on your way. Let’s talk through any concerns you’re having.
Your worries are my worries now.