Understanding Stress and How Therapy Can Help
Stressful situations are a normal part of life – and stress can serve a purpose. However, it can also make life difficult or intolerable in many cases. Dr. Gaisie and the therapists at GY Counseling of Maryland, including Rockville, Millersville, and Columbia, share important information regarding stress and how stress management can help.
What Exactly Is Stress, and What Causes It?
Stress itself is simply a response to something going on. It might be that your newborn is crying and you can’t seem to soothe them, a loved one is ill, your job is requiring too much of you, or anything in between. Situations such as these can create doubt, overwhelm, and negative thoughts, which can create physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.
In some cases, this response lets you know you are in danger or that you need to carry out a specific action. For example, you would understandably be stressed if you were being followed, letting you know to seek help. You might also have a “stress” response when you’re excited, such as at your wedding. These are examples of when stress plays a more positive role.
Unfortunately, stress tends to be much more negative or lead to negative spirals of emotions and thoughts. It’s these times that learning to identify and address it is so critical before it takes a toll.
Impact of Stress on One’s Life
Stress can impact you in many physical, mental, and emotional ways, including but not limited to:
- Irritability
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Stomach cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Overeating or undereating
- Substance abuse
- Avoiding people, places, or things, including relationships and loved ones
- Feeling depressed
- Being “on edge”
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
Chronic stress has even been linked to stroke, heart disease, and other serious health issues.
How Stress Therapy Can Help
Stress therapy with a psychologist isn’t a “magical fix,” but it is definitely beneficial by providing the following and more:
- Identifying the source of stress and triggers
- Adapting your response to triggers
- Learning to manage what you can control
- Building healthy coping strategies for what you can’t
The specific techniques used will depend on your individual needs and symptoms.
Let stress management and anxiety counseling therapy help you achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life by visiting Dr. Gaisie and the team at GY Counseling. Schedule an online appointment in Millersville, Rockville, Columbia, and the rest of Maryland by calling (301) 529-1095 today.