What to Do If You’re Experiencing Chronic Stress

*This is a collaborative post on what to do if you’re experiencing chronic stress

Many of us are feeling pretty stressed right now. This is no surprise. The whole world has been dealing with a pandemic for almost a year now and this has had huge impacts on different people’s health and wellbeing. Many of us are feeling stressed due to isolation. Lots of us are feeling stressed due to health concerns. Many of us are feeling stressed due to job insecurity. Lots of us are feeling stressed due to financial difficulty. The list goes on. While stress is a natural reaction to these logical issues, it’s important that you are able to identify when you are experiencing chronic stress and that you know what to do should you face chronic stress. Here’s some more information on the subject.

Understanding Symptoms of Chronic Stress

Stress can express itself in many forms. Chances are you can just feel if you’re stressed. But all too many people sweep this under the carpet and pretend that they are feeling fine. What you might not realise is that stress can result in physical problems, behavioural changes, and mental health concerns. Here are some symptoms of stress that may be able to highlight that you’re experiencing chronic stress.

Identifying Stress

Stress is pretty simple to identify. Here are some of the warning signs:

Physical Symptoms of chronic stress

• Headaches
• Muscle Tension
• Fatigue
• Sleep Problems

Behavioural Symptoms

• Emotional Outbursts
• Undereating
• Overeating
• Withdrawal from Social Situations

Emotional and Mental Symptoms

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Sadness
• Procrastination or Lack of Motivation

Trying Calming Routines

There are steps and routines you can implement into your day-to-day life to help you to deal with stress and alleviate its presence in your life. Many people find that these things help, so here are some suggestions that could really help you!

CBD

Various studies have found that CBD oil can alleviate stress and leave you feeling calmer and more tranquil. Start with a low dose and work your way up. If you have any questions about this and whether it’s suitable for you, simply contact your doctor who can give you individual and more specific advice. Also, use a regulated CBD producer for a quality product.

Calming Teas to help chronic stress

Many of us feel much more relaxed when we sit down with a hot drink. Now, the hot drink of your choice may differ, but there are plenty of tea blends out there that have been formulated and produced to specifically reduce feelings of stress. Many of these blends include ingredients such as chamomile. Give them a try.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is an ancient practice that has experienced increasing popularity in the Western world in recent years. Put simply, it is a practice that allows you to ground yourself, observe everything that is going on around you, and letting it pass without judgment. There are plenty of apps, video tutorials, podcasts, and more that can guide you through this.

These, of course, are just a few suggestions. If you’re really struggling with stress and are feeling overwhelmed, make sure to reach out to your doctor, a helpline, support group or charity who will be able to help you further!