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- ABC of Mental Health
Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health — one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is stress. We bring it to your inbox this Thursday to make your Thursday a little therapeutic!
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One relevant recommendation:
In our ongoing journey to offer holistic approaches, we highly recommend integrating mindfulness techniques like JPMR to alleviate stress. JPMR involves systematically tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in the body, promoting physical relaxation and mental calmness. Consciously engaging with each muscle group helps us release accumulated tension, fostering a profound sense of relaxation and well-being. This simple yet powerful method empowers us to take control of our bodily responses to stress, offering a practical tool for managing daily challenges and promoting overall mental health.
Two quotes on Stress and Listening to our Bodies:
Joyce Meyer, An American author and speaker, explains stress:
"It's not stress that causes problems. It's how you respond to stress."
Danzae Pace, an Italian composer, lyricist and singer-songwriter normalises stress:
"Stress is the trash of modern life—we all generate it, but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life."
Three TherapyShorts from TST (on stress)
Not all stress is negative: Recognising that not all stress is harmful can shift perceptions and promote resilience. Eustress, or positive stress, can motivate and energise individuals to tackle challenges and achieve goals. For instance, the stress of a deadline may push someone to excel in their work or studies. By reframing stress as a potential source of growth and opportunity, we can harness its positive aspects to thrive in demanding situations.
Impact on mental and physical health: Stress has a profound impact on both mental and physical health. Chronic stress can contribute to a range of health issues, including anxiety, depression, cardiovascular problems, and weakened immune function. Thus, incorporating stress-reduction strategies such as mindfulness meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help us mitigate these adverse effects and promote our overall well-being.
Managing internal vs external stressors: Distinguishing between internal and external stressors allows us to adopt targeted coping strategies. Internal stressors originate within oneself, such as negative self-talk or perfectionism, while external stressors stem from external circumstances like work pressures or financial concerns. By addressing internal stressors through techniques like cognitive-behavioural therapy or self-compassion practices, we can cultivate resilience and improve our ability to cope with external stressors more effectively. For instance, developing a growth mindset can help counteract the negative effects of self-doubt and enhance one's capacity to navigate external challenges with greater adaptability and confidence.
Love and light,
The Social Therapist
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