Your Brain on Stress - Alicia Crum

Everyone has some level of stress, whether it’s a bad day at work, a flat tire, or unexpected bill in the mail. However, too much stress can make it difficult to parent effectively.

After a while, your child or teenager may show signs of being stressed out, too!

Some signs that you are stressed include:

Feeling angry or irritable a lot of the time
Feeling hopeless
Having trouble making decisions
Crying easily
Worrying all the time
Arguing with friends or partner
Overeating or not eating enough
Being unable to sleep or wanting to sleep all the time

A build-up of stress also can contribute to health problems, including allergies, a sore neck or back, headaches, upset stomach, and high blood pressure.

Remember: Learning to manage your stress will improve your happiness and show your children that they can handle stress, too!

It is important to learn how to manage your stress- for your own sake and for your children. The following suggestions may help:

Identify what’s making you stressed. Everyone’s stressors are different. Yours might be related to money, work, your surroundings, (traffic/crime), your partner, your children’s behavior, or health issues.
Accept what you cannot change. Ask yourself, “Can I do anything about it?” If the answer is no, try to focus on something else. If there is something you can do (look for a new job, for example), break it into smaller steps so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Have faith. Look back at previous times when you have overcome challenges. Think, “This too shall pass.” Consider that people who attend church, pray regularly, or practice other forms of spirituality tend to have less stress.
Relax! Try deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or listening to music. Take 30 minutes to play a board game and laugh with your kids.
Take care of your health. Getting enough sleep can make a big difference in your stress level. So can eating healthy foods and getting some exercise.
Take time for yourself. Take a bath, read a book, or pick up a hobby. When you can, hire a babysitter or trade time with a friend or neighbor, and get out of the house.
Develop a support network. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Older children can set the table. Your spouse or partner could take over bedtime a few nights a week. Friends might pick up the kids from school to give you a break.

If you find yourself still struggling to manage stress, despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out for extra support. If you feel your high stress level is impacting your ability to parent effectively, request a family therapy appointment here.

Be Well & Stay Safe,

Alicia

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