When To Get Extra Help
Self-help techniques for stress management have tremendous potential. They are easy to use, they're economical, and they are good for your general health. However, there may be times when you need other help in dealing with stress.
To help you decide if you need additional help, here are some questions to ask yourself:
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Is stress really the problem? Sometimes, people may be too quick to blame stress if they are tired, or their backaches, or they are having trouble eating or sleeping. Check with your doctor to rule out physical reasons for these symptoms before you conclude that they are caused by stress.
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Is it more than stress? You may have psychological problems that are more complicated than stress. If you are frequently depressed, often feel panic, or think you may have a phobia (an abnormal fear of an object, experience, or place), consult a doctor or psychologist.
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Do you need technical help? Technical help can come in the form of books, videos, consultations with experts or the leader of a stress-management group. Here are some suggestions.
Consultation With An Expert
You may want the guidance that comes from individual consultation with a professional. An expert in stress management can do an assessment to identify which techniques would best suit your skills, temperament, and needs. Professional that help individuals cope with stress include:
- Psychologist
- Psychotherapist
- Nurse
- Physician
- Exercise instructor
- Dietitian
Stress-Management Groups
Stress management groups can offer help that is relatively inexpensive. In addition to expert guidance, you will benefit from the support of other group members. Before you join a group, find out what stress management techniques they offer, and see whether they match your tastes and needs.
Living With Stress
Remember that a world without stress would be very dull indeed. Once you understand your own stress patterns and have learned how to control them, you can live life to the fullest.
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