One of the more difficult things that happens to all of us sooner or later is that we will have so much going on in our lives that it begins to overwhelm us.
At these times it becomes particularly easy to take our stresses out on others. This can take the form of harsh words or acts. Snapping, yelling, or lashing out at those we care about. More often though it becomes an excuse for neglecting responsibilities and simply ignoring those we should care about the most.
Video games, television, movies and even books can be a useful outlet, but can also be harmful obsessions. Spending hours upon hours in front of the computer with no useful gain while shirking chores and other responsibilities at home or at work will only lead to increased strife within our relationships. In some cases this need to escape can lead to truly ruinous habits such as drugs, alcohol or gambling.
Learning to manage the stresses that we encounter can lead to more positive results. One of the keys to handling this in a postive way is learning to identify those times in our lives when stresses are increased. It could be specific events at work, school or at home that make us feel like we just need to escape. Identifying these "triggers" will let you know when you should make a change.
Learning to communicate these triggers and your stresses to those around you in ways that do not threaten is also important. If, for example you have had a very bad day then learning to let people know and asking for a short break to deal with it will be better understood than escaping into cyberspace for hours and becoming physically and emotionally unavailable. Be sure not to abuse these little breaks or they can begin to cause resentment as well.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
Some very good information here about stress factors. Another important note about stress is dietary factors that can accelerate stress and anxiety, such as caffeinated sodas/coffee, etc, and foods that generally work to elevate blood pressure. These should be avoided/minimized as another means to keep stress under control.
I ditto Rob -- "Good Info Here"
What I would add is be willing and able to tune up your relationship on a regular basis. My husband and I have been stressing out over how to support his daughter. It really helped to sit down with a detached pro (counselor) and talk it out. Wish we'd done that six months ago!
Another tidbit is to make sure you are both sleeping well. Tired people are a drag of everyone including their spouse and fatigue is a major contributor to martial stress.
Cheers!
Viveca
Rob, Viveca, good tips about sleep and diet. My wife is working nights now and the sleep schedule transition has definitely been a stress factor.
This is also one of my concern. I also like to master on managing my stress. I hope I can do it right. Thanks for sharing the article.
Post a Comment