Judy Price is Writing

At the best of times life’s stressors can cause havoc if not dealt with appropriately.

When dealing with a break-up, it is especially important to be vigilant regarding ones stress level.

Everyday tasks can become overwhelming to someone experiencing extreme emotions, which are the norm for an individual grieving the loss of a relationship.

Feelings of insecurity, loneliness, anger, betrayal, sadness, to name a few, all contribute to behaviours that may be unhealthy, creating physical and emotional stress.

Some try to avoid the pain by numbing the mind with alcohol or drugs.  Others turn to food or conversely experience loss of appetite.

Sleep can be used as an escape or can be reduced if the mind is plagued with anxiety-ridden thoughts.

Exercise, while an excellent stress-reliever in moderation, if obsessive can lead to more health issues.

Seeking comfort through risk-taking behaviours such as excessive credit card use/ shopping or sexual encounters can lead to deterioration of financial, emotional, psychological and physical health.

Meditation, music, journaling, imagery and relaxation exercises, massage therapy, mineral baths, herbal tea, nutritious foods, sports, dancing, physical exercise, creative pursuits such as art or writing, changing one’s thought process from catastrophizing to more realistic or hopeful thoughts; all can be effective ways to manage ones stress level.

Sometimes it can be helpful to turn off the ‘bad’ news and watch comedy, sports, and uplifting stories instead.

Seeking the input of a doctor or therapist might be necessary to implement the above strategies, as an individual’s energy level needs to be addressed in order to have the ability to engage in healthy stress-reducing activities. 

It is always wise to enlist a doctor to monitor ones blood pressure and overall health, especially during stress-inducing times.

As stress management strategies are learned and implemented, an individual who benefits, will then feel empowered to actively use these techniques routinely as part of daily life in the future.

What was a devastating stressor in ones life can become an opportunity to create positive and healthy lifestyle changes moving forward.