What is happening to me?

            Today I will discuss a problem that is very common in our daily lives, that many times can cause crisis in our families, relationships, mental health, and bodies. Stress is a common issue that all families face daily; sometimes, it can be avoided and sometimes it cannot. So, what is stress? What are some stress events? Can stress lead to a crisis? How can we deal with it? I believe this is an important topic to be discussed because it causes many problems in our lives. We need to be prepared to find resources to deal with this issue that is so constant and common in our lives.

            First, let’s discuss what stress is. Stress can be defined as state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress can come from any event or situation on our lives, and it can be controlled or uncontrolled events. For this reason, we need to pay close attention to what is causing that feeling of being anxious, worried about something or that tension that builds up around us. It is important that we notice those feelings so we can prevent them or deal with them in the best way we can.

            Second, it is important to know what is a stress event. Stress events are difficult situations that can happen to us that can lead us to be stressed and tense. Some stress events can be controlled, such as debt, unexpected pregnancy, drugs, alcohol, car accidents, due dates, being late for work, taking care of relationships, etc. All these examples are things that we can prepare for and avoid unnecessary stress. But some stress events cannot be controlled, such as sickness, accidents, unemployment, natural disasters, lost of a loved one, etc. When we are aware of stress events, we can be prepared to choose how we will react to it, instead of letting this situation control us.

             Stress can lead to crisis. A crisis is period of instability and danger in life that can affect your mental health, your relationships, and everything around you. Crisis can be very destructive because once you have one, it is hard for you to control your emotions, thoughts, actions, and it will affect everyone around you. That is the reason why we should learn how to deal with stress and find ways to cope with it.

            Finally, how can we deal with stress? I believe that first we must identify what is causing stress. Second, evaluate what could be done to prevent it from happening. If it is a situation that you cannot control, you can choose how you react to it. Third, look for things you can do to alleviate that stress. It can be through a conversation, a time out, listening to music, watching something you might like, exercising, reading, or anything that could take you away from that situation for a moment, so you can calm down and process it. Fourth, think of ways you can solve that situation. If you cannot deal with it by yourself, seek for help. Remember that sometimes you might need professional help and that is ok. Fifth, no matter what, remember you can choose how you will react to it. There is always a way. I believe that all those steps will help us to deal with the daily stresses that can be so disruptive and demanding to ourselves, our relationships, and the society we live in. Remember that there is always a way to deal with any situation that presents in our lives. We must be positive and use the resources available that will help us to be less stressed and enjoy life at its fullest.