Stress: Talking it Over

Recently my family has had some personal issues that have increased the stress I feel quite a lot. Having some experience with mental health issues as a former psychiatric nurse and also someone who has from time to time sought professional counseling, I have been asking myself, OK, what to do now?

My choices are numerous and include among others: 1. Do nothing, and let things work themselves out, 2. Be proactive and try to help the situation, or 3. Go to pieces. My choice is number two. This hopefully will have the best result and relieve my guilt in the event things go badly and I had not done something to improve things.

Too much stress can cause depression, anxiety, sleep problems, high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems, all of which I don't need.

Here are some strategies I plan to use to tackle my stress:

• Talk it over with someone I trust. This brings up issues of confidentiality of family issues vs seeking help from someone with the ability to be objective and supportive and thus decrease my feeling of isolation and helplessness.

• Take practical steps to resolve the problem, such as talking to family members to explore options. Consider seeking professional advice.

• One of my trusted associates said something very basic that was a good reminder. “Take care of yourself,” she said. So yes, I'll eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, get plenty of exercise and avoid excess alcohol.

• Make sure I have some fun and/or enjoyable activities. I like to read and go for long walks in natural areas, so I'll try to schedule these things into my calendar.

• Try to keep a positive attitude. I'm afraid I'm weak in that area.

• Take one day at a time and say the Serenity Prayer often.

  Any other suggestions?