Stress/Anxiety Management

Stress is widely common and characterized by emotional distress, muscle tension, aches, etcetera. It is a necessity for survival of all living species, however it can be damaging to one's mental and physical health when chronic. What most people do not know is that many normal “everyday” activities contribute to the worsening of stress. There have been many remedies and techniques stating that they can aid someone in lowering their stress, and the only matter is finding one that works. Stress is the sense of emotional and physical strain throughout the body and when practicing natural relievers such as exercises and self therapies, the feelings can subside.

Approximately 78 percent of people worldwide have experienced stress and its impacts. Stress is a fight or flight response when our body senses the need to take action. When people disregard the response, that is when stress can affect one's health. It causes symptoms such as tension pains in the head, back, or chest; upset stomach; sleeping problems; and fatigue. Stress can also lead to behavioral issues by influencing anxiety, restlessness, irritability, depression, or lack of motivation. Medical author Stoppler has stated, “While there are propitious treatments for stress, management is mostly dependent on the willingness of a person to make the changes necessary for a healthy lifestyle” (Medicinenet). In order to be able to manage stress, one must be confident in the overcoming process in order for it to work as the mind takes a huge role in gaining control.

Natural relievers are simpler and cheaper, and more humane techniques and exercises can relieve symptoms. One of the most common ones mentioned to relieve stress is exercise. According to “Skills You Need” by anonymous, it is stated that, “Physical exercise can be used as a surrogate to metabolize the excessive stress hormones and restore your body and mind to a calmer, more relaxed state" (Skillsyouneed). It works by releasing endorphins and acts as a painkiller and mood lifter, therefore making people feel better overall. An additional common remedy is breathing exercises, which work for more mild situations. Practicing slow breathing techniques can relax the fight or flight response and calm upcoming anxiety. This is performed by inhaling slow and deep breaths and exhaling at the same rate.

There are less common approaches that can be taken as well. Music therapy is best suited for those who seek comfort in their own individual taste. Listening to one’s own interest in music works by overall improving mood, easing muscle tension, and gaining energy. Tea is also considered a less common approach. Stoppler has stated that, "The release of neurotransmitters leads to the physiologic effects seen in the fight or flight response, for example, a rapid heart rate, and increased alertness" (Stress: Facts on Symptoms and Stress Management). Tea is a healthy alternative to coffee when it comes to reducing heart rate and influencing an adrenaline rush. Given the pleasant aroma, and soothing warmth, it aids in decreasing muscle tension, slowing heart rate, and clearing the mind.

Natural relievers can also have more unique techniques, one being done by holding onto a small distraction that influences fidgeting. A further elaboration would be holding onto a small yet satisfying item, whether it be a piece of clay, a marble, or a small toy, while performing a stressful task. This technique works for a quicker relief, for those needing to complete tasks at the moment such as presenting a speech or performing. This has been shown to decrease strain and anxiety as all tension is being released on that object. People who suffer more chronic stress should seek help with more prominent results. Those with the ability to do so should get medical attention or psychiatric help, medications such as Prozac, Zoloft, or Paxil have been used to treat stress disorders and further anxiety-induced disorders, and have been known to assist in emotional distress.

Stress is a basic biological reaction in all living species which can recur throughout life, and essentially another word for the fight or flight response. The key to coping is finding the most effective reliever is possible to reduce symptoms and increase overall health. One must have confidence in the treatments in order for it to take full effect on a person's mentality. To achieve a full overcoming of stress, healthy natural relievers should become habits.