Mind in Matter

It’s been difficult to escape the past 12 months which for many of us can and has lead to long periods of continuous stress. Stress is unique in many ways in part as we all deal with it differently, it also presents itself differently too. Regardless of who you are a permanent state of stress is not good for our physical and mental well-being.

We all know what it’s like to feel stressed but it’s difficult to truly understand what stress means since there is no medical definition of stress, and professionals often argue if stress is the cause or the result. Stress is often seen as a bad thing but it needn’t always be that way, it is part of normal, everyday life it can make you feel energised, take action, motivated and get results. It is when you start to feel overwhelmed that stress can become an issue. This can be caused by changes happening in your life for example:

• Big changes at work or your home life.

• Not having much control over certain situations.

• Responsibilities that you find overwhelming.

• Not enough work, or change in your life.

• Health issues for you or someone close to you.

• Uncertainty.

• Financial concerns.

Just as the feeling and cause of stress are individualised so are the signs:

• Irritable, and aggressive behaviour.

• Racing thoughts.

• Distributed sleeping patterns.

• Uninterested in life or things/activities you usually find fun.

• Weight gain or loss.

• Increased alcohol consumption.

• Constant tiredness.

• High blood pressure.

The lists above are not exhaustive but can help give you an idea.

As stress isn’t a medical diagnosis there is no specific course of treatment, however, if you are experiencing lots of the signs of stress it may be worth looking a few options available to you:

• Talking

  • Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).

  • Mindfulness-based stress reduction (combines mindfulness, mediation and yoga).

  • Family and friends.

• Medication

  • See your GP.

• Ecotherapy

  • Being outside in nature improving your well-being and self-esteem.

  • Try a garden project.

• Complementary and alternative therapies

  • Yoga. There are lot’s of beginner guides on youtube.

  • Massage.

  • Headspace (app).

• Exercise and movement

  • Daily walks.

  • Park jogs.

  • Squats at your desk.

These suggestions may not alleviate your stress completely but may help you manage it now and in the future.

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