Stress Management Counseling in Buffalo, NY
Stress is a natural part of life that is often harmless. However, it can be challenging to complete daily responsibilities, think clearly, and function properly when stress becomes chronic. Chronic stress is not something to ignore. If you need help coping with stress, Harris Hill Counseling therapists can help.
How Does Stress Affect Us?
Stress comes in many forms: emotional, mental, and physical. Occasional stressors are harmless and can even be utilized to push us to take steps towards important goals or motivate us out of a situation that doesn’t serve us. Moderate stress levels allow the body and mind to respond quicker. Most stress isn’t inherently dangerous, but chronic stress can cause significant mental strain and long-term health problems.
Stress, in simple terms, is a state of mental, emotional strain or tension resulting from demanding circumstances. It is important to note that stress can develop from within as well. We all have to handle stressful situations throughout our lives, but how we are affected by these stressors depends on how we learn to cope with them and compartmentalize our thoughts through tough times.
Causes of Stress
Everyone is different, and we all perceive and manifest stress in unique ways. Some common stressors that can impact mental and physical health include:
- The death of a loved one
- Divorce
- Loss of job
- Financial obligations
- Getting married
- Moving
- Chronic illness
- Injury
- Emotional problems
- Traumatic events
- Fear of the future
- Harboring unrealistic expectations of yourself and others
Many medical conditions such as heart disease, fibromyalgia, eczema, type 2 diabetes, and more have been linked to stress. While stress is not the main cause of these conditions, it does worsen them and increases a person’s likelihood of developing a stress-related medical condition.
Symptoms of Stress
There are many signs of elevated stress levels, both physical and emotional. A few common ones include:
- chronic headaches
- joint pain
- upset stomach
- easily-triggered anger
- irritability
- panic attacks
- feeling overwhelmed
- trouble sleeping and/or nightmares
- memory loss
- impulsive behavior
Stress Management Counseling Can Help
While some stress can be dealt with through self-care, people often require outside support. If you find your stress isn’t subsiding and is taking over your life, it may be time to start a relationship with a Harris Hill Counseling therapist. Your therapist will act as a sounding board for you and create a personal plan to help you lower your stress levels and cope with stressful situations as they arise.