Dear Parents,
Stress has become a common word in our everyday language. However, do we really know what true stress feels like? The Mayo Clinic shares the impact of stress on the body:
Your body remains in a heightened state, which can:
• Damage the nervous system
• Wear out your body’s reserves
• Weaken your immune system
• Elevate your blood pressure
• Leave you feeling completely overwhelmed
Symptoms can be:
• Anxiety/panic attacks
• Feeling constantly pressured, hurried, hassled
• Stomach problems/headaches/chest pain
• Eczema/asthma/problems sleeping
• Substance abuse/eating disorders/sadness/depression
The Mayo Clinic suggests that those who are stressed implement the “4 As.”
AVOID: rearrange, reschedule, learn to say no (leave early to avoid traffic; don’t engage that person who annoys you, etc)
ALTER: find ways to reduce workload, to delegate tasks, to work collaboratively
ACCEPT: don’t suffer in silence if you can’t alter your situation; reach out, talk to a friend, take a break
ADAPT: redefine success, perfection and be kind to yourself – look at the long view.
Finally, listen to your body: eat right, exercise, get adequate sleep.
Let’s do what we can to reduce the “stress” in our and our daughters’ lives by being mindful of this wise advice.
Have a great weekend!
- Anne