As April unfolds, so does Stress Awareness Month – a poignant time to turn our collective attention to the often silent yet pervasive adversary of modern life: stress. Here, American Mission Hospital (AMH), clinical psychologist Dr Feba Percy Paul shares some of her insights with GDN Media client editor Jayne Houghton
In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it’s all too easy to overlook the toll that stress exacts on our mental and physical health. However, Stress Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder to pause, reflect, and take proactive steps towards managing and mitigating stressors in our lives.
In the fast-paced world we inhabit, stress has become an ever-present companion for many. From the demands of work and studies to the pressures of maintaining relationships and navigating societal expectations, the sources of stress are manifold and often relentless. While a certain degree of stress can be motivational, driving us to achieve our goals and excel in our endeavours, chronic and excessive stress can wreak havoc on our wellbeing.
“Stress is a choice of response! It is not an event that happens to us, but rather, how we choose to respond to something that doesn’t fit our thinking pattern and takes away more of our responses. We have the power to change our choice of response and cancel out stress,” emphasises Dr Paul.
The repercussions of unmanaged stress are far-reaching, extending beyond mere feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Prolonged exposure to stress has been linked to a myriad of health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, compromised immune function, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The toll of stress extends beyond the individual, affecting workplace productivity, interpersonal relationships, and societal cohesion.
Against this backdrop, Stress Awareness Month assumes heightened significance, providing a platform for raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and promoting effective strategies for stress management. It is imperative that we collectively acknowledge the importance of prioritising mental well-being and destigmatising discussions surrounding stress and mental health.
“Central to the ethos of Stress Awareness Month is the notion of empowerment through education and self-awareness. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to identify and address stressors in their lives, we can empower them to cultivate resilience and adopt healthier coping mechanisms. From active meditations and progressive muscle relaxation techniques to seeking professional support when needed, there exists a plethora of resources and strategies to help navigate the turbulent waters of stress,” concludes Dr Paul.
For more information or to book an AMH appointment, WhatsApp 33644177 or telephone 17177711.
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