Shed the Stress, Catch Some Joy

Did you know that stress is contagious? But as this article points out, joy is too.
 
As we continue our work to build a community of those who care, this is an excellent example of how coming TOGETHER can help us all reduce stress. As the article states, “… let your natural capacity for empathy connect you to both the pain and joy of others, and to trust that this capacity is a blessing, not a liability.”
 
Let’s face it, caring for someone we love with a mental illness can be stressful, overwhelming, and even traumatizing at times. We all need ways to cope with stress, and that’s why the first thing I usually say when I get a call from someone in stress is for them to BREATHE.
 
But there are many other ways to deal with stress and anxiety. Here are some good ones from GoodTherapy.org. And here are 10 ways to de-stress your mind and body.
 
Stress can have internal or external causes. It can show itself through a variety of physical, emotional, cognitive or interpersonal symptoms. Low energy, headaches, upset stomach, sleep difficulties, frequent illness, loss of appetite, muscle tension, memory problems, irritability and difficulty concentrating are just some of the symptoms that can arise.
 
Reframing is a way to shed that stress by changing your worldview based on your thoughts, beliefs and perceptions. One way to do this is to remember the “Four Cs”: I can’t change it, I can’t control it, I can’t cure it, but I can cope.
 
And … one of the best ways to cope is by delighting in the joy of others. One way you can do that? Become a volunteer for our One-to-One Caregiver Support program - YOU can help to bring joy to others! See the link below to apply!
 
What are your go-to coping techniques for when you are feeling stressed out?

Kristi

Kristi Horner
Founder and Executive Director