Have you ever reached a breaking point when you just couldn’t take it anymore? How did you handle it?
This week, we saw a young, strong athlete step away from expectations that felt like “the weight of the world on her shoulders” to establish a boundary for emotional self-care. It took a lot of guts to speak out for herself in this way, knowing there would be many who might ridicule her for such a display of backing down from her anticipated performances.
A common reaction
Pressure can be difficult for any of us to handle. It comes in many forms, depending on the circumstance and season of life we are in at the time.
I read on a medical blog site: “Stress is your body’s reaction to a challenge or demand.” In short bursts, stress can be a helpful thing if we’re in danger and need the added adrenaline to make a quick decision or escape. But long term, holding on to pressure and worry might become debilitating to your overall health—both physically and mentally.
Where does stress come from?
Pressures and/or high expectations related to:
- Career/job duties
- Parenting frustrations
- Financial concerns
- Unmet life goals
- Relationship issues
- High expectancies of self
- Unrealistic anticipations from co-workers
When I’m stressed about life situations, I react in different ways—some emotionally and others physically. I think this is true of many individuals. We can’t assume that just because a loved one is behaving or feeling a certain way that’s different from how we handle stress or anxiety that they’re ok. Sometimes people are good at masking some deeper feelings that are actually tearing them up inside.
Common signs of too much stress:
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Forgetfulness
- Frequent aches and pains
- Headaches
- Lack of energy or focus
- Sexual problems
- Stiff jaw or neck
- Tiredness
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Upset stomach
- Use of alcohol or drugs to relax
- Weight loss or gain
Other psychological and emotional signs that you’re stressed out include:
- Depression or anxiety
- Anger, irritability, or restlessness
- Feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or unfocused
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Racing thoughts or constant worry
- Problems with your memory or concentration
- Making bad decisions
Coming up, we’ll consider several positive ways you can manage stressful situations in your life.