Rock Creek Senior Living Explores Stress and Anxiety Management

Each day we go through our lives making decisions, worrying about the future, or maybe having concern about our health. It is only natural that we experience both stress and anxiety in some form at some level. Stress is defined as any demand placed on your brain or physical body, while anxiety is specified as fear, worry, or unease. Although defined differently, they are connected and share the same symptoms. Most of us experience stress, anxiety, or both at some point, whether from work or our personal life.

At Rock Creek Senior Living we are aware of proven techniques to help ease the symptoms of stress and anxiety, including lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet. We also know unmanaged stress and anxiety can interfere with your daily life and affect your physical and mental health.

When I experience stress and anxiety, I feel a weightiness in my chest and an overwhelmed feeling. If not managed it can affect my overall health. My triggers for anxiety and stress are when I am not able to complete the work I need to in a timely manner. I also become stressed when others are not doing the work they should be doing. My anxiety seems to trigger more at night when I am alone.

Stress and anxiety symptoms can trigger many symptoms. You can feel chest pain, stomach upset and nausea, and a feeling that you are out of control. They can trigger you to want to overeat or the opposite, you are unable to eat because of your stress and anxiety.

Exercise is always a good stress reliever. Another technique is meditation or prayer, depending on your beliefs. It is also helpful to become involved in group activities, so that you are around other people. Being able to laugh and enjoy a hug or a touch from someone can bring a sense of calming. If you like music, this is another way to lessen stress. Nothing is better than shutting your eyes and listening to some calming music.

Some stress and anxiety are expected, but if you feel it becoming unmanageable and affecting your daily life, a healthcare professional can help you develop new coping skills.