Stress Awareness Month

April is a month where we need to be aware of the stress around us and take action against it. Right now, many people are having stress due to the unknown. With so much unknown in the world right now we need to focus on what we can do to make sure the stress is not causing harm to our body.

Signs of stress from

https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-symptoms-effects_of-stress-on-the-body#2

Emotional symptoms of stress include:

• Becoming easily agitated, frustrated, and moody

• Feeling overwhelmed, like you are losing control or need to take control

• Having difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind

• Feeling bad about yourself (low self-esteem), lonely, worthless, and depressed

• Avoiding others

Physical symptoms of stress include:

• Low energy

• Headaches

• Upset stomach, including diarrhea, constipation, and nausea

• Aches, pains, and tense muscles

• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat

• Insomnia

• Frequent colds and infections

• Loss of sexual desire and/or ability

• Nervousness and shaking, ringing in the ear, cold or sweaty hands and feet

• Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing

• Clenched jaw and grinding teeth

Cognitive symptoms of stress include:

• Constant worrying

• Racing thoughts

• Forgetfulness and disorganization

• Inability to focus

• Poor judgment

• Being pessimistic or seeing only the negative side

If you are concerned that you may be suffering from extreme stress please contact your doctor and reach out for help. We are all in this together. The YES program is here to help as well contact any of the following numbers:

Ms. Marlene - 908-436-6769

Ms. Kristina - 908-436-6770

Ms. Melyssa - 908- 436- 6771

Ways to help with stress at home: (www.webmd.com)

• Keep a positive attitude.

• Accept that there are events that you cannot control.

• Be assertive instead of aggressive. Assert your feelings, opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, defensive, or passive.

• Learn and practice relaxation techniques; try meditation, yoga, or tai-chi for stress management.

• Exercise regularly. Your body can fight stress better when it is fit.

• Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.

• Learn to manage your time more effectively.

• Set limits appropriately and learn to say no to requests that would create excessive stress in your life.

• Make time for hobbies, interests, and relaxation.

• Get enough rest and sleep. Your body needs time to recover from stressful events.

• Don't rely on alcohol, drugs, or compulsive behaviors to reduce stress.

• Seek out social support. Spend enough time with those you enjoy.

• Seek treatment with a psychologist or other mental health professional trained in stress management or biofeedback techniques to learn healthy ways of dealing with the stress in your life.