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Stress
"Over the years your bodies become walking autobiographies, telling friends and strangers alike of the minor and major stresses of your lives" ~ Marilyn Ferguson
This can be a stressing time of the year. That is true for those we care for and ourselves. We are pretty good at caring for the patients, maybe not quite as good at caring for each other. There have been some really stressing events here the last few days. And stress can kill ya!
Stress can cause a host of health problems. Chronic unresolved stress weakens the immune system, increasing our susceptibility to infections such as common colds and other viruses. Additionally, studies have shown, the cumulative effects of unresolved psychological stress contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure. Stress can also turns on genes that trigger disease, accelerate aging and lead to depression.
So, let's be sure and take care of each other. How? By being sensitive to the signs of being overly stressed that each of us may demonstrate during our work. Irritability, absenteeism, overly emotional reactions, expressing anxiety or dejection, or losing perspective in our work. When we notice these things we should offer support. Sometimes just pointing it out can be helpful. Letting others know they are supported in taking care of their health is important too.
Some little things you can do to improve your reaction to stress;
A little more exercise, a little more sleep, a little deep breathing and a few more nights out with friends -- will help.
Exercise
Initially, an intense workout is a stressor, boosting the heart rate, blood pressure and adrenaline. But regular exercise leads to lower baseline heart rates, lower blood pressure and lower stress hormone levels when at rest. This makes occasional surges of stress easier to handle.
Sleep
Here's the paradox: When you're stressed, sleep often suffers. Yet a good night's sleep helps guard against the ravages of stress.
Breathing
The counterpoint to intense physical activity -- deliberate relaxation -- also mitigates stress. Mindfulness is the ability to deliberately focus on the present moment and to appreciate it. When people are mindful, they feel less urgency. Practicing mindfulness and meditation trains the brain to focus -- whether on a mantra or a moment and can significantly help fight the negative affects of stress.
Friends and Family
If you feel socially isolated and lack the emotional support of people around you, you're at an increased risk of the effects of stress. Don't allow yourself to isolate. Talk to others and spend time together.
As health care providers, I think this is true; as we better understand our selves the better we can help others.
Please take care of you. You are too important to let the stress of this important work run you down.
Thanks you for your good work. | 
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