You CAN!
Brought to you in collaboration with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society as a reminder that despite the challenges MS may bring, you have a whole life to live. We encourage you to visit You CAN! regularly. Topics will be added every other month.
The current You CAN! topic is: Get a Handle on Stress
You CAN ….Manage Stress
By Judith Meyer, PhD
Heuga Center Program staff member
Stress is something we all live with on a daily basis, but YOU CAN manage your stress!
How we respond to stress determines its effects on our overall health. Stress can be both positive (Eustress) and negative (Distress). When MS is involved, it’s especially important to minimize the effects of Distress.
While studies remain inconclusive about the effects of stress on the course of MS, one recent study by Mohr found significant increase in MS relapses following stressful life events such as marital or financial problems.
Stress can come from many factors, both environmental and internal. Perception is a powerful stressor which activates human physiology and can cause a fight or flight response. The chronic results of these stressors are very similar to the symptoms of depression.
Symptoms of Depression Resemble the Behavioral Effects of Chronic Stress:
- Loss of interest in usual activities, including sex
- Sleep disturbance—trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep or early morning awakening
- Appetite and weight changes
- Irritability—"Short fuse"
- Hopelessness, Pessimism, Helplessness
- Guilt, Worthlessness, Emptiness
- Persistent Sad, Anxious or “Numb” Feelings
- Decreased Energy, Ongoing Fatigue
- Impaired Concentration, Memory, Decision-Making, Feeling "Slowed Down"
- Thoughts of Death or Suicide
YOU CAN manage your stress! The optimal way to control stress is through a combination of information, control, and connection. And the best stress reducers have been shown to be internal quieting and exercise.
YOU CAN begin a stress management program today by:
- Initiating a regular physical activity program with input from your physician
- Practicing stress management techniques such as guided visualization, mindfulness meditation, relaxation or other similar activities (there are many tapes available which can help lead you through these activities)
- Seek professional help if your stress is interfering with your daily activities
- Make sure you are getting proper rest
- Get connected with your local community resources; that connection can help you manage your stress effectively.
