April is Stress Awareness Month. As you likely know, finding healthy ways to cope with stress can really improve your quality of life. But it’s much easier said than done, especially when you’re juggling multiple stressors. Sudden changes, such as being injured in a car accident or losing a loved one, can also cause your stress levels to increase.
The Effects of Stress
Stress impacts people in different ways. Emotionally, you may experience frustration, sadness, helplessness, disbelief, depression, and other feelings that make it difficult to focus. Mentally, you might find it more challenging to concentrate or make decisions. Physically, headaches, stomach problems, jaw pain (from grinding your teeth), and back pain are common reactions to stress.
Long-term stress can lead to serious issues including stroke and heart disease. And turning to junk food, smoking, or alcohol to help manage stress can exacerbate these health problems. So, what can you do to manage stress?
Tips for Coping with Stress
Sometimes you just can’t do anything to change what is causing you stress. For example, if you’re feeling frustrated by a sudden injury’s impact on your lifestyle, you (unfortunately) can’t magically repair a broken leg with the snap of your fingers. In some cases, the best way to cope with your stress is to try to accept it and focus your mind on something that helps you feel calm.
Taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly can make coping with stress much more manageable. Talking to a trusted family member, friend, physician, religious leader, or therapist can also be very helpful.
Something as simple as watching your favorite movie or trying a new recipe might be just the ticket for lightening your load. Hobbies like coloring, sewing, reading, woodworking, birding, painting, hiking, and many more can give you an enjoyable outlet to help manage stress.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
