April is Stress Awareness Month, so DoctorsCare has a few tips on how to handle stress and keep you mentally and physically healthy.
Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in adults and children experiencing stress. This is especially true in children with the latest news of mass shootings in schools.
Symptoms of physical or emotional stress:
- Feelings of fear, shock, anger, sadness
- Change in appetite or low energy
- Nightmares or difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Physical reactions:
- Headaches, body pains, stomach problem, and skin rashes
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Increased alcohol or substance abuse
Suggested ways of coping:
- Reduce TV or listening to the radio about news stories.
- This includes social media.
- Stay informed about what is happening in the world around you, but don’t dwell on it.
- Get healthy by eating right and exercising.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Take a break when you start feeling stressed.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and substance use.
- Talk to someone:
- A trusted friend, counselor, or doctor.
- Connect with your community
- Get involved with organizations in your community.
- Volunteer at social events
- Join a faith-based organization.
Seek help
- If your stress continues and doesn’t seem to be getting better, seek professional help from a psychologist, social worker, or professional counselor.
Tips for parents
- Help your children by maintaining a normal routine.
- Regular bedtimes and meal times provide a sense of stability.
- Talk with your children, but more importantly, listen to their fears and concerns.
- Watch for a change in behavior.
- Reassure your children about their safety and well-being.
- Talk to other parents and/or teachers about ways to help your child.
If you are in an immediate crisis, get help by calling a professional or call 911.
For more information about suicide prevention locally, call 211. At DoctorsCare, our providers are specifically trained in Urgent Care and Emergency Medicine. Visit one of our two conveniently located offices in Clarksville. We accept walk-in patients of all ages during all hours of operation. No appointment is necessary! Walk in, feel better!