Stress is everywhere. Its unavoidable. Stress is a constant in every living system and in every relationship.
Some stress is necessary. When we push back against the stressors, we grow stronger.
We don’t grow when we’re in the “Goldilocks zone” of life. Not too hard, and not too easy. No stress equals no growth.
The kind of stress we need is the kind that is “just beyond” our current abilities or coping resources. This kind of stress challenges us and stretches us. This kind of stress enables us to build resilience and grow. One researcher calls this “eustress” – good stress.
Eustress enables us to develop resilience
- Personally
- In our relationships with family and friends
- In our occupation and career
- In our emotional, mental, spiritual well-being
But what happens when we face a stressor that is too difficult, and taxes our coping resources too much or too long?
Life can feel overwhelming. Distress can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, even thoughts of suicide.
The good news is, whether we experience “eustress” or “distress” there are effective strategies you can learn and use today to help you manage, cope, and thrive.
Five simple things you can do today that are part of a healthy coping strategy:
- Eat a healthy diet. Avoid junk food.
- Get plenty of sleep. Avoid sleep deprivation.
- Exercise (aerobic) regularly. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
- Develop and maintain positive in-person relationships. Avoid or minimize your exposure to toxic people.
- Limit use of alcohol. Avoid drugs.
Want more? Build resilience to stress by doing these ten things.
Want more? Bring balance to your life by focusing on wellness and well-being.
I help people cope with stress and become more resilient.
Contact me to schedule a no-cost consultation to learn how I can help you.
Additional resources for coping with stress
American Institute for Cognitive Therapy – Stress
The Resilience Factor, Reivich & Shatte
Resilience, The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges, Southwick & Charney
