Stress Reaction a Misunderstood Condition – Tips for relief
The “stress reaction” probably started as far back as in cave man days. Yet it is the one of the most misunderstood issues.
Most people associate it with aggravation, anxiety and dis-tress. When the reaction to stress seems to come out of the blue, or when there is a situation where no stressor can be seen, it can be the cause of fear and worry. Yet, the stress reaction has a positive purpose. when working properly, it can protect you by mobilizing you for action.
Fear and worry feed the symptoms of stress.
Our fearful thoughts create negative images, ideas or reasons for our symptoms. When the heart starts to pound, for no apparent reason, or when the chest get so tight or the stomach starts to churn, our distress is multiplied as we worry about possible heath conditions. And feel out of control wondering if these terrible feelings will ever stop.
At times thoughts can move so quickly through the mind that we are not aware of them. Yet, the fearful thoughts add to the stress we are having.
The mind and body are connected, therefore our thoughts can create physical reactions. Our body does what it is designed to do in a flight or fight situation: it releases chemicals to get the body ready to fight or flee. This is a normal part of the stress reaction, but when we aren’t aware of the triggers, the chemicals rushing through the body create physical symptoms that seem to come out of the blue. This plays havoc on the mind and body.
The first key to getting a handle on the stress reaction is to recognize that it is not the outside event that actually causes anxiety, fear or stress. It is the way we interpret, filter or think about what is going on outside of us that determines the severity of our reactions. No matter the event, you can learn to have control over your reactions.
Once the symptoms and thoughts are identified, there are many different things you can do to change your reactions. There are different techniques that you can learn according to which part of the stress cycle you are in. Addendum A of Audrey Sussman’s e-book: More Than Stress Management for the list of techniques.
My clients who have used the Transformation System techniques, say that it’s like having an automatic guidance system in times of need, one that creates calm, balance and energy.
Because many of the techniques have a self-hypnotic component it puts the mind into a state of balance where it is easier to make decisions in a calm and focused manner. It is easier to do these the first time with one of our therapists who are trained in these techniques, yet there are many things you can do on your own where you’ll find it is possible to let go of fear and anxiety that have been weighing you down.
Experiment with the next technique to identify issues that are causing distress.
1. Think about what causes you stress, panic, fear, guilt or anxiety.
2. Write down whatever comes to mind. Keep this list because when you change you will be amazed at where you started.
3. Number the issues or symptoms from most stressful to least.
4. Put a star next to the top 3 stressors, and write them down on a piece of paper.
5. For each of the 3 starred items, write down how it will it be when you are free from the issues.
6. Take some time to really imagine how life is different when these are gone.
7. Start right now by visualizing a new possible future: This is the start to any change.
8. Make note of any negative thoughts the come up when doing this positive future visualization exercise.
NOTE: If you would like detailed tips and exercises, you can get a copy of Audrey Sussman’s newest e-book: “More than Stress Management”. (This is an unedited, draft edition so please be patient with any errors) The good news is that it’s only $10, and is chock full of ideas and information. Next month when it is edited and ready for publication the cost will be $39.
The link to order is: http://www.anxietycontrolcenter.com/book-order-form-more-than-stress-management-real-ideas-that-work/
And in February 2014 the book people have been asking for “Quieting the Mind,” by Audrey sussman PhD, will be available in the stores. You can learn the step-by-step method for inner peace and balance.
Please sign up in the right corner of the website to be on our mailing list. You’ll get information as it comes out on this profound method of change. Or click here and it will take you Audrey’s personal email. Send any comments or questions you’d like answered.
