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“T” Relief
We’ve only just begun the
New Year 2023, and just like that, we are one week into it. It could be me, but
it just feels like time is in such a rush. Of course, time is passing at the
same rate it always has, but suddenly I’ve become more aware of how quickly it
comes and goes. This thing called life finally got real for me, and as I work at
living out the best life, I once imagined for myself, I’m experiencing some
unique challenges. When I was younger, and had no concept of time, my
experiences were completely different from today. For example, I believe I
could stay up for hours, see for miles, remember everything, not worry about
much of anything, and pain was rarely if ever a factor. Oh, but now… phantom
pains, blurry vision, memory loss and stressors are my new way of life. Coming
to terms with the fact that my years are fewer ahead made me realize that this
season of life is not for amateurs, and this revelation created a certain amount
of urgency for me, as my desire to make the best of every second, minute, and hour
of each day increased. No, sirree! During this “T” time, I thought we should
discuss pressures and stress to help us understand how too much of either
impacts our quality of life.
Life of course is going to have a certain amount of stress, but too much of it can wreak havoc on one’s mental health. Blogger Jon Wade (n.d.) argues that “overwhelming stress can precipitate and complicate anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), among other conditions.” I know for me, that I often feel anxious and tired because of constant stress when trying to take care of so many demands and responsibilities. Although not every event “is damaging to your mental health, they can make your day challenging” and less manageable. Dr. Clarence Clottey, a health and wellness consultant says “stress causes the human body to respond in different ways, most noticeable “is a rapid heartbeat” or a “fight or flight reflex” when the body gets ready to confront the issues at hand (2018). There are those who perceive they perform better under stress, but I’m not one of them. I’d rather have plenty of time, get started early and finish ahead of schedule, than at the last minute. Besides, according to Dr. Michael Hurd, working under pressure is an excuse for procrastinators (2015). I know some will debate his stance, but I do know that when I wait until the very last minute to get something done, I tend to feel distressed and less accomplished.
So, what do we do to reduce the pressure or stressors we encounter? You can exercise, take time to rest or relax, get a massage, get assistance or one of my favorites, talk with someone who listens well and can advise you through your challenges. The last part is dear to me, because I have found it most helpful to talk with counselors or close friends when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Prayer, meditation, and journaling can also prove helpful, and get in the practice of writing out a plan that keeps you on schedule. Do not take on more than you can realistically handle, and if need be, ask for help. Be kind to yourself, life is shorter than you think… Take a sip and enjoy every moment! Dr. P
References
Image: Retrieved from https://media.istockphoto.com/photos/couple-with-hot-drink-relaxing-by-fire-picture-id462944515?k=6&m=462944515&s=170667a&w=0&h=ty8NbOm
VOrSo4nL8VM9c--KNtqHFjcBFU0qt3JwhnLk=
Clottey,
C. (2018). Health, Wellness and Productivity Consultant. Retrieved from https://drclarenceclottey.ca/health-and-wellness
Wade, J (n.d.) Relationship between stress, pressure, & mental health.
[Blog post] Retrieved from: https://www.motleyhealth.com/blog/the-relationship-between-stress-pressure-mental-health
Dr P. does an effective job identifying common challenges we all face as we progress in life. Many of these challenges are often ignored, which may lead to greater fears, stressors, and obstacles in the future. All of her recommendations for managing or eliminating many of these issues can be used by many and have proven to be beneficial when dealing with such internal and external hurdles.
ReplyDeleteThank you April B. Your input helped to drive the point of my position home. There will be hurdles in life which challenges us in different ways. The key is to manage them so that it doesn't become overwhelming and negatively impact our wellbeing. Way to stir the "T."
DeleteOften in times of stress and feeling overwhelmed I feel like I don’t have a safe place to express my feelings. Or it’s my fault because the choices I have made that put me in the position I’m in. I always think who can I trust or that one person is busy or they have something going on in their lives that I don’t want to burden them with my problems. Mental health is very important and the feeling alone and trapped takes a toll. It is very hard to find someone who you can truly trust.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous, your input is the very reason this conversation is so needed. I sensed your need to open up and lighten your load. I invite you to share as much as you care to and reach out if you feel the need. You'd be surprised at how many of us share similar stories and are seeking connections that help us overcome. In fact, thanks to you, I think I'll extend this topic into the next post to allow more opportunity to share. That was a good cup of T
DeletePerfect timing and insight as we begin a new year. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteIt's always the right time for good T. Pull up a seat and take a sip 🤓
DeleteI was recently diagnosed with all the conditions previously mentioned above. Stress definitely amplifies them. It took me years to come to terms that I needed help and seek it. I was on autopilot for so long. I’m still in the beginning stages of unpacking all that has taken place and learning how to cope and manage. It’s hard to open up out of fear of being judged or ridiculed, especially by family and friends. I feel like mental health is not talked about enough amongst African Americans specifically (& yes I am African American for those who may wonder). I don’t recall anyone ever saying anything about it growing up. Or maybe I did but it was just labeled being “crazy”. It had/has such a bad stigma to it. People fear what they do not understand but it all starts with taking the initiative to being open to listen and learn. Much love to anyone who may be struggling in general. Continue to show up for yourself, one day at a time.
ReplyDeleteThank you anonymous. Keep pouring into my cup!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteWow, absolutely in my neighborhood or should I say on my block and honestly knocking at my door. Taking this moment (T time) for me. All that has taken place and we are only 15days into this new year and I feel like the first quarter of the year has gone. Great pointers and surely a realty check to maintain my own mental health, physical, emotional and spiritually. These first 15 days has definitely caused me to draw closer to the Lord. So, surely something is up and we better get our house in order and yes stop and enjoy T time with my sisters that he has put in my life along this journey.
ReplyDeleteThank you Dr.P once again. I love you Sis!
Yes Sis,
DeleteIt is indeed a reality check to realize where we are in life and how things are going. We strive to live our best lives based on what society defines, but the Lord tells us it is bigger than the chasing of dreams and acquiring of things. He wants us to build healthy connections with each other and with Him. He tells us we need not figure everything out and definitely not on our own (Proverbs 3:5). A relationship with Him is important and causes "Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!" Now that's something I can use for these bones of mine today. Thanks for the T. 🤓