Good Stress
Good Stress
Have you noticed that even during good times, you may feel overwhelmed? There are names for different types of stress. Stress is the body’s response to changes and demands. Our bodies react to stressors by releasing cortisol and adrenaline, preparing us for “fight or flight.” We may be used to thinking about distress, a state of danger or urgent need that may bring suffering or pain.
But what about the better times that can still feel intense? This type of stress is called eustress, or good stress. We might go through it with planning for marriage or the birth of a child, a new job or a new home. It is usually short-term and goal-oriented, and it can feel positive.
During any episodes of stress, coping skills are important. Whether the source of stress is distress or eustress, our bodies and minds may be going through a lot. I often recommend skills from DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, to reinforce coping skills clients may already have, or want to build upon. Some skills are preventive, and others can be used to regulate ourselves in a moment of overwhelm or overload.
When we know we are entering a season of stress, including good stress, one technique I recommend is known as “PLEASE.” The letters of the acronym spell out a solid foundation for self-care and stress management.
P: Physical care for your body, including clean teeth, skin, hair and clothes.
L: Treating iLlness (I know this one might seem like a stretch since illness begins with I, but this is my favorite!), which involves keeping healthcare appointments and taking current prescriptions.
E: Eat regular, nourishing meals and stay hydrated!
A: Avoid mood-altering substances!
S: Sleep adequately for your physical needs and rest when possible.
E: Exercise or stretch in ways that feel good; if you have a PT routine, this is a great time to maintain it.
Altogether, the elements of PLEASE may seem like obvious points of self-care, but during times of increased demands, they are a helpful reminder to keep our life from feeling as if it’s beginning to spin out of control. They are especially important when we experience good stress and our focus shifts to excitement or accomplishment.
It is critical not to let our self-care go by the wayside. It helps ensure that we can continue feeling healthy to function with the demands of a new situation, and also helps us enjoy a positive time!
