Different Types of Stress
Stress can be chronic, acute, or episodic. Lifelong things like relationships or jobs can trigger chronic stress disorder. Patients suffering from this kind of stress suffer each day for a long time. The symptoms of chronic stress may include extreme irritability, lack of concentration, low self-esteem, frequent headaches, loss of appetite, and insomnia. However, the long-term effects of chronic stress may cause heart disease, anxiety disorders, memory problems, depression, or digestive disorders. CBT is among the most effective therapies for chronic stress.
On the other hand, a sudden loss of a job or a loved one, for instance, could cause what's called an acute stress disorder. Acute stress can last for a few days or even weeks, but it's not as long-lasting as chronic stress. If acute stress persists for more than one month, the patient may be suffering from anxiety disorders. Patients with acute stress disorder might exhibit detachment, flashbacks, avoidant behavior, irritation, or insomnia.
We all know the person with a type-A personality. They are driven and adhere to what appears to be an unattainable standard. This type of personality often develops what is called episodic stress disorder, in which they exhibit greater than life responses to triggers. Signs of episodic acute stress disorder include irritability, anger that they cannot manage, panic attacks, stomach and heartburn, heart disease, and frequent headaches. Treatment for this mental health condition could involve medications or lifestyle changes and therapy. The patient and therapist determine what is working most effectively.
Stress Management Techniques
The best thing one can do to relieve stress is to remove triggers from their life. However, this is not always possible as stressors are a part of life that one cannot completely avoid. But there are techniques that one can apply to handle the worries that come their way.
Regular exercise is a great way to cope with stress and reduce stress-related reactions that trigger. Engaging in exercise helps reduce stress hormones, which reduces the risk of being afflicted by symptoms of stress that may trigger. Exercise can help one feel more relaxed and assist them in sleeping better, which can reduce stress.
When one is stressed, thoughts about the trigger can fill their mind and continue a tension cycle. But one can try breaking that cycle by reminding themselves of the strengths and resources they have to deal with the stressors.
Talk therapy can also help one manage stress, as talking openly about struggles can help one reduce stress. Someone who is stressed can create a circle of friends and family with whom they can share their thoughts and feel connected and supported.
How Therapists Can Help Manage Stress
Although the techniques above are helpful in stressful situations, sometimes the stress is too great to handle on your own, so one should get help from a mental health professional. Therapists can help one develop different ways of thinking about the stressors in their life.
Whether chronic, acute, or episodic, stress can be managed with appropriate guidance, and patients must be aware that assistance is available. If one is struggling with stress, one can contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates. The providers at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates offer integrative care for people with stress. If someone is struggling with managing stress, the exceptional team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates that is now offering services in Rhode Island can help. You can book an appointment by visiting www.bostonneurobehavioral.com or calling us.
