“ In order to open a door, we need a key, We need a key to open the door to life,the door to liberation” Jean Vanier
Stress is a consequence of living busy lives and having many commitments to fulfil. Sometimes it is possible to reduce some of these activities but other times that is not an option. Everyone may experience stress in different ways but most people will have physical symptoms as well as psychological distress. Some of these symptoms are: muscle tension; headaches; stomach discomfort; skin rashes; diarrhea; changes in the sleeping and eating patterns and mood changes amongst many other symptoms.
Feeling stressed these days seems to be a norm rather than an exemption. Stress could be a driving force to accomplish lots of tasks and keep going but when we are unable to switch off and our bodies and minds cannot relax even when we are trying to rest that is when we know we have to do something about it. Once stress takes over it becomes a heavy load that affects concentration, ability to focus, alter our emotions, makes us feel overwhelmed with everyday things and we are not longer able to enjoy our lives.
Being stressed for a long period of time could impact negatively our physical health increasing the possibility of experiencing heart problems; high blood pressure; indigestion and insomnia among many others health issues.
A psychologists can help to identify the triggers to your stress, to develop strategies to manage your stress levels while encouraging to make some positive changes in your lifestyle.