Mental Health Moment 11/1/2024

Stress Awareness Day

November 6th is National Stress Awareness Day. While I find the timing deeply ironic, the issue of stress and its impact on how we function is very real. The World Health Organization defines stress as, “…a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.” Everyone experiences stress, to some extent, but the way that we deal with it can really determine how stress impacts our lives and health.

I would love to fill this column with a whole Instagram post full of “self-care” tips. But these are tips you probably already know. Of course, exercise and eating your vegetables can help you manage your stress levels (in fact, I made these very recommendations in last month's column.) But one thing I have been hearing more from my clients is how they feel bad about feeling bad. The stress about what they feel is poor stress management is causing, well, more stress. So, I am going to go a little off the usual script and ask you to love your stress. Hating your stress, feeling shame for being stressed, berating yourself for finding everyday tasks stressful…I just do not think it works. 

Stress can feel like a raw, exposed nerve. If you keep adding to the irritation, it will not get better. So, the next time you notice how stressed you are, take a moment. Breath deep, lift your shoulders up to your ears and then drop your shoulders on your exhale. Clench and unclench your hands and shake out some tension. And, when you are ready, whisper into your stress, “I love you and we are going to get through this.”  Loving your stress is a part of loving yourself and that is a radical act. And, over time, self-love will help you reduce your stress levels.

—Jennifer Kronk is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor practicing in the Chicago area.