What is stress?

Stress is a normal part of life, and moderate amounts can motivate you and help you be more
productive.  In fact, moderate stress can even improve heart function and help the body resist infection,
and protect against aging diseases like Alzheimer's by keeping the brain cells working at peak
capacity.  However, too much stress can be destructive, and is linked to many physical, mental and
emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, exhaustion, suppressed immune system, headaches,
backaches, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, insomnia, and high blood pressure.  Prolonged stress can
lead to unhealthy behaviors like overeating and drug/alcohol abuse.  

Stress can be hard to define because it is so different for each of us.   A day at the beach might be relaxing for some, but could be
frustrating and non-productive for people who like to keep busy all the time.

It is important to identify your own stress triggers.  Some of the more obvious causes of stress include job loss, divorce, and death of
a loved one.  But small, daily stressors - such as arguing with a spouse or sitting in traffic - can wreak havoc over time if not managed
properly.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension or fear.  Everyone feels some degree of anxiety at times - like when running late for an important
meeting, or feeling unprepared for a test.  But some people feel anxious without knowing the cause, which can add to the
uneasiness.  When anxiety becomes overwhelming and interferes with day to day functioning, it is considered an anxiety disorder.  
Anxiety disorders can be categorized as follows:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):  Intense, unrealistic worry lasting 6 months or more, even when there is nothing to provoke the
    feeling
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD):  Persistent, recurring thoughts or fears that may cause the person to perform certain
    rituals or routines (ie, washing hands, repeating phrases, etc) to relieve the anxiety
  • Panic Disorder: Sudden, severe feelings of terror or panic for no apparent reason
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):  Can follow a traumatic event such as a sexual or physical assault, the unexpected death
    of a loved one, or natural disaster
  • Social Anxiety Disorder:  Also called social phobia, it involves overwhelming anxiety about being judged by others or behaving in a
    way that might cause embarrassment or ridicule
  • Specific Phobia:  Intense, irrational fear to a specific object or situation

How to deal with stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety are normal feelings, and do not necessarily indicate an anxiety disorder.  You may feel stressed or anxious
because of an overly demanding schedule, lack of exercise or sleep, concerns over financial matters, or even from too much coffee.  
Although you may not be able to control or eliminate the causes of your stress or anxiety, there are things you can do to help bring
balance into your life, such as:

  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat well-balanced meals
  • Meditate for 10 to 20 minutes every day
  • Set realistic goals
  • Let go of the need for perfection - from yourself and others
  • Say no when it's appropriate
  • Ask for help when you need it

Call now for a free 15 minute phone consultation to discuss how we can help you manage the stress and anxiety in your life!*

*Some issues require medical referral.
1842 Snake River Rd, Suite C     |     Katy, TX  77449     |     Ph: 281-206-2345     |     Fax: 281-206-2342
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