Ostriches don’t really bury their heads in the sand. However, that is an apt image for what happens when we try to deny our troubles instead of dealing with them. Denial is a common defense mechanism for avoiding facts that make us uncomfortable. In the short term, it can be constructive if it helps us to gradually come to terms with upsetting news. Troubles arise when … [Read more...] about Are You Living in Denial? Break Free With These Strategies
Stress
What You Need to Know about Alcohol and Stress
Alcohol and stress have a complicated relationship. An occasional drink can help you to feel happier and more relaxed. On the other hand, heavy and prolonged consumption increases your risk for anxiety, depression, and other undesirable consequences. Much of this is due to how alcohol affects your brain. When you’re healthy, your body deals with stress by increasing hormones … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know about Alcohol and Stress
12 Coping Mechanisms for Stress
Stress is sneaky and can sometimes grow out of control, sometimes leading to physical symptoms that may include headaches, long-term weight gain, or chronic diseases. Luckily there are things that you can do to lower your stress levels, helping to keep your cortisol levels manageable. Try these strategies to cope with your stress: 1. Acknowledge your stress. The first step … [Read more...] about 12 Coping Mechanisms for Stress
An Effective Process to Deal With Extreme Financial Stress
There are varying degrees of financial stress. For example, consider the stress levels in these statements: “How will we pay for the trip to Hawaii this year?” “We don’t have enough money to go out to Luigi’s, but we can have Pizza Palace deliver.” “We can pay the electric bill or the gas bill, but we can’t pay both. Remember that the bank said we’d lose the car if … [Read more...] about An Effective Process to Deal With Extreme Financial Stress
A 5-Minute Guide to Bedtime Meditation
Even if you’re careful about sticking to a regular bedtime, you may need to do more than that to get a restful night’s sleep. Otherwise, you could be lying still in your bed, but you’re still wide awake because your mind is racing. Meditation could be the answer if concerns about your health, finances, or other issues are keeping you up. Mindfulness practices can increase … [Read more...] about A 5-Minute Guide to Bedtime Meditation