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Increased heart rate. Muscle tension. Upset stomach. Sharp chest pains.  

These symptoms are very common for a lot of conditions, but one in particular, is your body's way of preparing itself for the flight or flight response due to stress. Stress is something that happens to everyone. There are times when stress can be a good thing, such as when you're trying something new; your body prepares you to be energized and ready to perform at its best. This is called Eustress. However, we're more familiar with the bad effects of stress, called Distress. This is what gives stress a bad rap. It can cause negative physical, emotional, and even behavioral responses. This happens when stress stays in your body long-term. 

April is National Stress Awareness Month, 30 days of raising awareness about its impact and promoting healthy coping mechanisms, as well as increasing awareness about stress. There are three types of stress: acute stress, episodic acute stress, and chronic stress. Acute stress comes and goes quickly and can be positive or negative. Episodic acute stress happens on a regular basis. This type of stress doesn't give you a chance to return to your normal relaxed state. Chronic stress is last for weeks, even months. Stress that lasts can contribute to conditions such as arthritis, Fibromyalgia, weight gain or loss, ulcers, heart palpitations, and even infertility.  

When it comes to children, stress can show up in different ways: emotional outbursts, trouble sleeping, withdrawing from others, struggles in school, frequent headaches or stomachaches, and even and increase in defiant behavior. These can come when there's a lot of conflict within their family dynamics, living in poverty, and even living with others who suffer from mental health disorders.  

There are ways to reduce your stress level and to manage stress. It all comes down to finding out what works best for you.  

• Physical activity is a big part of stress management. Finding something you like to do whether it is running, boxing, dancing, even yoga can help lower your stress level. Doctors recommend getting at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.  

• Spend time with family and friends. Loved ones can uplift your spirits and bring you out of your depressive state. 

• Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts can help with processing situations and emotions, gaining self-awareness, and gives time for reflection. 

• Adequate sleep. Not getting enough sleep can reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone. It can also improve your mood and brain function. 

If you feel you've tried multiple strategies and it's not helping, it may be time to get some help. Here are a couple of resources available to you: 

• Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 

• Check your symptoms to see if it's stress or anxiety 

• Mental Health Resource Center MHRC 

• National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI 

• Florida Department of Children & Families- Florida Counseling and Evaluation Services FCES 

If you see someone having a hard time, show them some kindness. Ask them how they are doing and offer an ear. They may just need someone to talk to. You could be just what they need in that moment. 
By: Texsena Scott