Stress
Stress is a normal physical response to events that make you feel threatened. This automatic ‘fight or flight’ response prepares you to fight a predator or run away quickly. It’s the body’s way of keeping you safe.
The stress response also plays a positive role by helping you stay focused, energetic and alert. It can be exciting in small doses but too much is exhausting.
When Stress Becomes Overwhelming
Perhaps you’re always in a rush but always late, take on too much and feel overwhelmed by life’s pressures and demands. You might feel that you’ve got a lot of nervous energy.
You may have become used to feeling stressed until one day you felt totally overwhelmed.
Stress Factors
There are two types of stress factors:
Symptoms Vary Hugely
The signs and symptoms of stress vary hugely and everyone experiences it differently.
Physical Symptoms Include:
- Increased heart rate
- Sweaty palms
- Tense muscles
- Hyperventilation (over breathing)
- Disturbed sleep & Tiredness
- Vomiting, Nausea & Sickness
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Sudden weight loss or gain
Psychological Symptoms Include:
- Worrying
- Irritability, Frustration & Confusion
- Low self-esteem and confidence
- Inability to concentrate
- Feeling afraid or unable to cope
- Difficulty making decisions
- Feeling negative and lack of interest in life
- Feeling alone
- Loss of creativity
- Withdrawal
Behavioural Symptoms Include:
- Altered sleep patterns
- Use of drugs or alcohol
- Changes in appetite
- Avoiding situations
- Changing habits
- Nail biting
- Teeth grinding
- Loss of interest in physical appearance
- Lack of communication
- Putting off difficult jobs and giving excuses
Stress Management
We’ll work together to create a unique plan that covers all areas of your life. You’ll learn:
- To handle one thing at a time
- To be more assertive
- Work out what you CAN do
- To encourage yourself
- Give yourself credit for your accomplishments
- To control your thinking
- To let go of anger.
How Many Sessions?
How long it takes will depend on your needs and situation. If you also suffer from depression symptoms take longer to resolve. I offer a free initial consultation during which we discuss a personalised treatment plan and the number of sessions required.