Is stress leaving you feeling like a mess?
This blog is to serve as a free tool for educational purposes to get a better understanding about the things we support here at Reclamation and Recovery Counseling, LLC. As a disclaimer, it is important to note that this information does not constitute grounds for making an official diagnosis. Official medical diagnosis is between you and your provider. If you have any questions, please feel free to Contact Us for your free consultation.
Am I just stressed or am I anxious?
Did you remember to pay all of your bills on time? Or did you even have enough money to pay your bills? Did you get that report in on time to your boss, or make sure your timesheet was submitted? Did you remember to buy that one specific thing your partner wanted for your anniversary? Odds are, one of those questions may have stressed you out if you forgot. Stress can be a daily occurrence for many people, as it is the body’s natural way to remind you of important things to get done. However, as with most things, too much stress can be harmful and even dangerous for your health. Stress crosses the line into anxiety when it begins to influence your actions or the way you deal with situations. Are you so worried about that big party at work, that you couldn’t sleep the entire week? Anxiety manifests in extreme for worries and stresses. Anxiety may physically look like the following: having hypertension, excessive sweating when worried, shortness of breath, tightness in your chest, or even leading to passing out from being so worried.
When is too much stress a bad thing?
Stress comes in a variety of forms, but some are more dangerous than others. We have listed some common experiences below in which it be helpful for you to see a professional if your stress or anxiety is creating issues for you:
You actively avoid social interactions. Being around other people worries you too much. It may feel safer to remain in the comfort of your own home rather than interacting with others.
You worry about the worst possible outcomes. Something such as going to get groceries may trigger thoughts about all the possible ways you could get hurt or other outcomes that might be dangerous.
You are falling behind in obligations and responsibilities. There is so much on your plate, that you struggling to balance everything. You might feel like you are drowning in the expectations of what is needed from you.
You may experience panic or anxiety attacks. These experiences have been described as feelings that closely mirror heart attacks. Gasping for air, feeling as though you are suffocating, lightheadedness, or even passing out. It is important to consult with your doctor to rule out that you do not have a heart condition if you have experienced these symptoms.
