Stress Management
Professionals often struggle to balance the demands of work and home life, juggling obligations to meet the needs of others and leading to stress and burnout. The impact of stress on physical and psychological well-being can be detrimental, including decreased work performance and increased health risks (headaches, fatigue, etc.). In short, stress is an inescapable aspect of almost every profession, but there are effective ways to manage and reduce it.
So, what is stress? Most will agree with the definition of “conditions where an environmental demand exceeds the natural regulatory capacity of an organism.” Simply put, managing professional and personal tasks often becomes overwhelming, resulting in stress. This may include meeting work deadlines or completing an important presentation on time. The cause of stress varies from one person to another, as well as the techniques used to manage it, so it is vital to develop coping strategies that are individualized and tailored to meet one’s needs.
It is important to participate in enjoyable activities when finding ways to manage stress. This may include simple mindfulness techniques like meditation with deep breathing or taking ten minutes to write in a personal journal. Weightlifting, running, and teaching indoor cycling classes are all activities that I use to reduce stress. Others may enjoy spending time with friends and loved ones. Regardless of the activity, ensure that it is enjoyable and leaves you feeling refreshed and replenished.
April Hough - MFT Student Therapist
References
Dattilio, F. M. (2015). The self-care of psychologists and mental health professionals: a review and practitioner guide. Australian Psychologist, 50(6), 393-399. Doi:
https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ap.12157
Lease, S. H., Ingram, C. L., & Brown, E. L. (2019). Stress and health outcomes: do meaningful work and physical activity help? Journal of Career Development, 46(3), 251-264. Doi:
https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0894845317741370
Persson, P. B., & Zakrisson, A. (2016). Stress. Acta Physiologica, 216(2), 149-152. Doi:
https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/apha.12641