You’ve got it together. Got it going on, doing it all, making things happen.
But is all of that supposed to come with migraines, Mylanta, and a bad case of the crankies?
Why does being so awesome feel so stressful?
Well, more than likely you are realizing something that many women with hyper-speed, super-full lives realize: you can have too much of a good thing. Especially if your good thing feels like it is your sole responsibility, all of the time. Particularly if you feel like asking for help is not what Superwomen do.
So, the stress mounts. And the overwhelm is real.
But hold on…your right to determine how much stress is too much is real too. You’re still in control. You get to make the necessary changes for a happier you.
The first stop on that trip to Relax City? A clear picture of the problem. So let’s go!
Consider these 7 Signs that You are Way Too Stressed…
1. You and Sleep Don’t Spend Much Time Together Anymore
In truth, you may be so used to insomnia that you don’t realize it’s a sign of too much stress. You may even think it’s a good thing, using the wee hours of the morning to get more done. But a lack of sleep is not your friend. You need to power all the way down so that your internal charger can get you back up to 100 percent.
Keep irritability, poor concentration, and exhaustion to a minimum by giving yourself permission to sleep. If you need help retraining your body for rest, reach out to a doctor or counselor for help.
2. You’ve Gotten Used to Sniffles, Aches, and Ibuprofen
Is your system trying to tell you something? Sick and tired people are often very stressed people. Be aware that an ongoing flood of stress hormones in your body creates complications for a host of bodily functions. If you have difficulty fending off illness, infection, and chronic pain, reduce your stress soon to start feeling better.
3. You Say, “I Forgot” & Lose Your Phone. A Lot.
It can make you feel crazy to walk in and out of a room six times trying to find the thing with the name you can’t remember. But the reality is, stressing and straining your mind daily without enough time-outs eventually causes it to fritz and fumble. You may have problems storing and recalling information. Your memory may suffer. You may even see trouble in your relationships when important times and dates are lost to your stressful lifestyle and unintended neglect.
4. Your Trips to the Salon are Less Satisfying
Stress can do a number on your skin and hair. If you are under undue amounts of stress, you may experience extreme hair shedding and thinning. Your skin may breakout or appear less vibrant. Essentially, stress kills that healthy, Supergirl glow.
Fortunately, sleep, hydration, and proper nutrition can help turn things around. If you reduce stress, within six to eight months, you can make your stylist happy again and stop hiding behind ponytails and that extra application of bronzer.
5. The Dental Bills are Starting to Add Up
When you are stressed, “the daily grind “is more than an expression. Do you find that toothaches and an achy jaw compound your list of concerns? Stress often takes a toll on oral health as you may find that you grind your teeth unconsciously. You may find massages and time with a counselor are helpful ways to ease the tension showing up in tour mouth.
6. You “Need” Wine, Nicotine, or Other Substances
Substance use can seem like a quick way to relieve the pressure you feel. Unfortunately, this can be an even quicker way to add to your challenges. Counseling and healthy self-care are better options than reliance on alcohol or drugs.
Keep in mind, too, that if you are already in recovery, periods of high stress can trigger a relapse. A clear mind and your sobriety is precious, resist the temptation to use by keeping stress manageable and remaining accountable to someone who is compassionate and nonjudgmental.
7. Sex Sucks
While sex can be a great stress reliever, when you are overly stressed, things just don’t tend to come together well. Too much stress kills desire. Thus, even a phenomenal sex life can suffer. Overwhelm and burnout rob your ability to rest, focus on your partner, and may even contribute to biological dysfunction. It is crucial to share your concerns and overwhelm with your partner and a therapist to keep communication open and stress out of the bedroom.
You Don’t Have to Go On This Way
The point of all this is not to make you feel bad about being stressed. We all struggle to balance responsibility and rest. We just want you to know it’s okay to give yourself a break.
You need it. Your body and mind are ready for it.
Listen closely to your own needs and let go of some of the things that weigh you down.
It’s perfectly fine to ask for help. It’s healthy to share your burdens. It’s a good thing to talk it out and take measures to share your stressors. We’ve got you! You can schedule an appointment with any of our affirming, therapists by clicking here. See you soon!
