What do you IMs do when your stress levels are so high you feel physically sick?
Funnily enough it has nothing to do with my children. We're currently in a sticky situation (not with friends or family) and I have to deal with a lot of people who simply have no understanding or compassion, who can't see that we're trying to do our very best to right certain things. I'm pregnant, I've been (what feels like constantly) sick with various bugs going around, we're moving house and with everything else piled on top I feel like I'm being crushed. I'm already seeing a psychologist (not as often as I would like and I'm not sure she's really helping) and I've been referred to the local social workers to have a bit of extra support but..I just don't know if it's going to help.
I don't feel depressed, but I do often feel overwhelmed and anxious (obviously going to talk to the relevant health care professionals but I don't think it's medication worthy). I'm not one who can easily switch off through meditation or anything like that..if I had time and peace and quiet I'd read but that's not possible with children running around wanting my attention. It's so hard when the stress is so high that I feel physically sick and find it hard to function properly.
If anyone has any suggestions or ideas on how to help I'd greatly appreciate it.
6 Replies
Have someone look after the kids for an hour or two. Take a book and go to a local park, beach or quiet place. Sit on a blanket and have mummy time.
I know it's hard when busy, but a little time out here or there can make a big difference. Even just have a coffee alone before you do the grocery shopping.
You're not alone, we all experience this, so you may just need to make sure you get your alone time in. Good luck and I hope it all calms down once you move and get rid of some of those stresses
I used to feel physically sick from nerves and stress a lot, but never felt it was bad enough to be medicated for. My mum taught me mind techniques - focussing on a memory that made me happy or relaxed, taking joy from little things like the smell of a flower or patting the neighbours cat. I found it was like a muscle - the more I practiced this the better it worked. I know it sounds lame but it worked for me. Taking the time to go and get a massage or do something nice for yourself is great therapy too! :)
Medication can make a huge difference in your ability to cope, and I disagree, it is medication worthy. Sometimes it is just a matter of reducing the small stresses to make it manageable. Don't tackle the big stressful situations, as this will only increase your stress. How old are your kids? Even little kids can help out with household chores. Can you set aside half an hour of quiet time with kids on their beds reading books, colouring in or similar while you have half an hour to yourself? For some people even getting up earlier than the rest of the family works, so they can have a quiet cuppa to start the day makes all the difference. Hang in there...this too will pass. (Mum of 5)
If it's making you physically sick that sounds medication worthy to me! It can make a huge difference. Medication eases the pressure enough so that I get something out of psychologist sessions, and use the skills they teach me.
No one can easily switch off to meditate, it's a fallacy! What matters is that u just try it! And it will get better with practice. If you don't do anything then at least sit and breathe deeply for 2-5 minutes twice a day, if u are anxious then you will be breathing very shallowly and this changes the pH of your blood and affects your whole body. It is also affecting your baby through your blood and brain chemistry and if u continue u may well have an anxious baby. If u are feeling sick from stress for sustained periods u are doing yourself harm so u must either practice relaxation, breathing, meditation or go to the doctor (last resort option). Also make some time to exercise and try to walk barefoot on the sand or on grass/ earth. You sound like u have a lot going on and need to calm your body/mind. There are also tons of free guided meditations/ other exercises on websites and apps you can access and do when u have 5 minutes. Finally, when u wake up in the morning and are still lying in bed, take 5 deep breaths and then set your 'motivation' for the day. Make it positive 'I am going to do everything I have to do one thing at a time, forgive myself for what I cannot do and keep my internal peace despite what other people do/say to me during the day'. Even if u forget about it it will be working all day in your subconscious! At night do the same 5 breaths and practice gratitude. Think of 5 things that your are fortunate to have or that have happened that day, no matter how small. Try to do this throughout the day, ie be grateful for all the smalls things you have. Happiness is an attitude that u have to practice. The stress you're talking about IS making you sick. Take a superfood powder drink to give your body a boost and stop and breathe. Hugs xo
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