8. Seek Out Others with Similar Issues. At critical and stress ful points in the development of Stress doc enterprises, support groups were a catalyst for encouragement and growth. One group, comprised mostly of artists exploring computer graphics helped me overcome technophobia and my embarrassing state of computer virginity. Then there was the social networking group for self-employed business folks called "Home Alone." This collection of oddballs and outcasts helped me overcome ignorance and reluctance to becoming a "Webbie." With the collaboration of an IT colleague, SS Stress Doc was launched into cyberspace. From fellowship to partnership, teaming with others breaks down self-imposed barriers and expands resources and options. The right mutual support system - whether through mentoring, partnering or group coordination - can help transform enervating stress into synergistic energy. Discover why the whole is often greater than the sum of its parts.

9. Consider a Support Group or Professional Help. Under chronic stress and exhaustion, or from a sense of severe mistrust, shame and inadequacy, you can hide out from yourself as well as others. Some will increase their drinking, drugging, smoking and eating. Many people have unrealistically perfectionist standards for themselves as well of others. This only tightens the stress knot. Chronic stress takes a toll on your biochemistry, often turning your mood range into a roller coaster ride.

Consider twelve step groups like Alcoholics anonymous (AA) and Codependents Anonymous (CODA), or depression and bipolar support groups (often run by a local hospital). These gatherings help us realize that misery doesn't just like company…It likes miserable company. No, just kidding. These groups cut through a sense of isolation and help you see your plight from a different perspective. They can inspire you to begin a slow and patient recovery one day at a time. (And you don't have to have a problem with alcohol or drugs for most 12-step groups. Just being part - past and/or present - of a good old dysfunctional family will suffice.)

Again, if the stress feels debilitating, or you are reluctant to open up in a group setting, consider individual counseling or psychotherapy with a mental health professional. Maybe start by calling a crisis hot line. Clinical social workers can be very helpful. Try contacting your local National Association of Social Workers Chapter or your local United Way Counseling Agency. For students, a guidance counselor, school nurse, school social worker or university health center is another option.

Also, if your agitated depression or high anxiety doesn't improve, I'd see a psychiatrist for evaluation for medication. The new antidepressant medications are often quite effective and often with relatively few side effects. But please be supervised initially by a psychiatrist or psychopharmacologist when doing a meds trial. Internists and GPs are not experts on mood medication.

10. Seek the Higher Power of Humor. At times, nothing brings more relief than laughing at ego-inflated, self-important stress carriers - you know, the so-called high and mighty who never seem to get ulcers, just to give them. But, in fact, the most powerful form of humor as "good medicine" and as a sign of psychological well-being and maturity is likely the ability to gently poke fun and laugh at ourselves. This capacity for tickling and embracing our flaws and foibles means self-awareness is stronger than judgmental "shoulds," that self-acceptance is more powerful than shame or blame.

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