When Stress Gets on your Nerves: Turning Tension into Tranquility

Stress is a demand of energy.  If you do not burn off excess energy it creates fatigue, anxiety, and depression.  Any change such job loss, deaths, issues at home,work and school are emotional triggers.  Stress blocks your system from being able to function optimally.  The key is to take responsibility for your own self-care.  You have nothing to give if your tank is empty.  If you treat yourself with love and kindness your body and mind will respond.

Stress Management Tips:

Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, get a massage. Stepping back from problem clears your head.

Breathe.  Take  deep breaths: inhale and exhale slowly on the count of 4.  Do this 10 times. You can close your eyes if you want.

Journal what is on your mind.  Try to pin point some of your concerns.  Also write three things in your life for which you are grateful.  Recite these gratitude statements silently during the day.

Welcome humor, a good laugh goes a long way.

Exercise. Exercise is vital for maintaining mental fitness and reducing stress. 5 minutes of aerobic exercise can begin to stimulate anti-anxiety effects.

Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip meals.

Limit alcohol and caffeine which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.

Fun. Put more fun and joy in your life.

Get Involved. Volunteer or be active in your community. Create a support network.

Talk it out. Call a family member or friend you are comfortable with to get support.

Ask for Professional Help.  Call any of our  psychotherapists who can guide you with helping you identify what you need to do in order to manage your level of stress and anxiety.  A therapist can help you develop a positive attitude.

When Fear Overwhelms: What you need to know about Panic Attacks and Choosing the Right Path

 

panic

By: Dr. Laura DeMarzo, Ed.D, Licensed Psychologist

Signs:
• Do you sometimes have sudden attack of fear that can last for several minutes?
• Do you feel like you are having a heart attack or can’t breathe?
• Do these attacks occur at unpredictable times causing you to worry about the possibility of having another attack at any time?
If you answered yes to two or more of these questions you can benefit from the top treatment for Panic Disorder.

Most Effective Treatment:
• See a Psychologist who can teach you different ways of thinking, behaving and reacting to situations that help you feel less anxious and fearful.
• This is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and it is the most effective treatment for Panic Disorder.
• Psychotherapy combined with medication is better than just Medication Alone.
• You will learn Relaxation and Breathing Exercises which can prevent further attacks.
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional treatment.
For more assistance:
Please call Dr. Laura DeMarzo to schedule an appointment 908-431-9200 491 Amwell Road Hillsborough N.J 08844 http://www.centerforpsychologicalservices.net or email laurademarzo@comcast.net