IDAHO FALLS, ID (KIFI) — Many of us can relate to stress. April is recognized as Stress Awareness Month, drawing attention to its negative effects.
From worrying about paying bills to the current state of the country, two-thirds of the U.S. population feels stressed on a regular basis, according to the American Psychological Association.
We need good education because we want to feel competent,” says Stephanie Westover, a licensed clinical social worker. “We want to be brave and go out and do what we need to do. We want to feel connected to other people. We want to feel like we’re counted. We want to feel. And how we try to meet those needs causes stress, some of which is a good thing,” Westover said.
Negative stress can cause lasting physical effects, such as high blood pressure and a sluggish digestive system. It is the body’s reaction to difficult situations.
Many people turn to alcohol or drugs to cope. “Those who say fentanyl is good are not wrong. Fentanyl helps in that way. It’s just a very short-term treatment that causes long-term damage and addiction,” Westover said.
But there are more effective and beneficial ways to stay calm.
“Make sure you’ve gotten enough rest, then plan your meals in advance. Breathing is important. It’s always a cliché, but it’s true. And make sure you’re breathing deeply. Please,” Westover said.
If you try it.
“When you breathe in air, move your hands slowly up and down. Breathe naturally high. You’ll notice it. Breathe naturally high without thinking about breathing,” Westover says. “Don’t even think about breathing. Think about slowly moving your hands up and down.”
Easier said than done. “There’s a bit of artistry to it,” Westover said.
Give yourself more grace as you go about your day. “It’s okay to accept things that aren’t perfect,” Westover says.
Click here to see past Mental Health Monday topics.
