By Brina Tiemeyer, LSMW, CAADC, CCS-DP
Wedgwood Director of Clinical Services
greer@wktv.org
Check in with Yourself:
- Your body and mind speak to you, especially when overwhelmed. Try to notice some of the below signs to spot high stress.
- Hyper-arousal: Quick to become irritated or annoyed, high anxiety and worry, unusually high energy
- Hypo-arousal:Unusually tired, feeling spacey, feeling numb, feeling frozen.
Practice Self-Care:
- Remember that self-care is anything that you do for YOURSELF. Self-care can be little (brushing your teeth) or big (getting a massage) as long as you take the time to do it for yourself.
Practice Mindfulness:
- Mindfulness means being aware of the present. Be conscious of what you are doing; even narrate it in your head if it’s helpful. Whether you’re eating, going for a walk, or taking a big test, try to stay in the moment.
Exercise:
- Going for walks outside, hitting the gym, or even doing a quick walk around the block releases endorphins which assist with mood stabilization and more positive feelings.
Get Enough Sleep:
- Sleeping allows the mind to reset and process the day’s events. Seven or more hours of sleep a night is most beneficial for the mind and body to rest and recharge.
Laugh:
- Laughter is the best medicine. Laughter aids in easing tension in the body which can last up to 45 minutes!
Positive Self Talk:
- Our thoughts play a major impact in our moods and behaviors. Dr. Shalu Ramchandi from Harvard University suggests, “For every negative or stressful thought experienced, try to find three positive ones.”
Connect with Others:
- Maintain meaningful relationships with others. Find a community that allows you to feel valued, cared for, and supported.
Practice Deep Breathing:
- Taking deep breaths allows the brain to manage the stress response better. Try the 4-4-4 method of breathing to assist in regulation during times of high stress.
Seek Help:
- Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if your stress is unmanageable. Wedgwood Christian Services’ Bouma Counseling Center has no waitlist and our team is ready to assist you – wherever life finds you. For further information, or to make an appointment, call our intake line at 616-942-7294.
