The Westbury Senior Living Explores Stress and Anxiety Management

Each day we go through our lives making decisions, worrying about the future, or maybe having concern about our health. It is only natural that we experience both stress and anxiety in some form at some level. Stress is defined as any demand placed on your brain or physical body, while anxiety is specified as fear, worry, or unease. Although defined differently, they are connected and share the same symptoms. Most of us experience stress, anxiety, or both at some point, whether from work or our personal life.

At The Westbury Senior Living we are aware of proven techniques to help ease the symptoms of stress and anxiety, including lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet. We also know unmanaged stress and anxiety can interfere with your daily life and affect your physical and mental health.

Stress and anxiety feel like an afterthought to me, personally. Very rarely do I feel anxiety related symptoms during times of actual stress. It usually catches up with me when the job and/or stressor is over. Challenges do feel overwhelming at times, but in moderation they are easily manageable.

Some triggers of stress and anxiety for me are holding myself to a “perfectionist” standard, expecting no mistakes or mishaps. A feeling of being overwhelmed with deadlines and unexpected bumps in the road are markers for increased stress.

Stress and anxiety can cause insomnia, agitation, acid reflux, and for myself personally, headaches and migraines. One technique I use when stressed or overwhelmed is to acknowledge I am one person doing the best I possibly can, and put into consideration everything will get done, but just one thing at a time. Also, having a good support system, whether co-workers or family, is essential to managing stress and anxiety.

Some stress and anxiety are expected, but if you feel it becoming unmanageable and affecting your daily life, a healthcare professional can help you develop new coping skills.