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Stress can be a mess to manage

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Destinee Dougherty
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Life can be stressful. Anything from bad drivers to finances can be a potential stressor, but when life leaves you down in the dumps, it’s crucial to learn how to manage stress and stay resilient.

There are two forms of stress: good and bad. Good stress is called eustress and can be caused by positive events such as getting promoted or winning the lottery. Bad stress is simply known as stress and can be caused by negative events such as the loss of a loved one or problems at home.

Bad stress can cause the nervous system to remain activated over a long period of time, resulting in fatigue and a lowered immune system. Some of the biggest negative stressors can come from relationships, work or financial problems.

“If you’re not managing your stress it’s going to spill into all aspects of your life,” said Penny Hardin, 20th Aerospace Medical Squadron Health Promotions coordinator. “If you don’t deal with stress it can start to feel like the world’s on your shoulders.”

The four pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness—physical, social, mental and spiritual fitness are all important aspects of managing stress.

For physical fitness, getting enough sleep – seven to nine hours for adults—and exercise can help relieve stress. Maintaining positive relationships and volunteering in the community are ways to improve social health while also managing stress.

Mentally, having a positive attitude can help deal with everyday hardships. Practicing kindness and meditation are two of the many options to improve spiritual fitness.

“Being able to keep things in perspective is a big key to managing stress,” said Patti Busser, 20th Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager. “Being able to determine what is temporary and what is permanent. Asking yourself: is this something I’m going to be worried about five years from now?”

Poor stress management can lead to the abuse of drugs or alcohol, changes in eating and weight, and other negative health effects. Additionally, stress can affect relationships and effectiveness at work which can create a cycle of stress.

Managing stress is an important part of maintaining overall health and staying fit to fight. Resources on base such as Health Promotions, the Behavioral Health Optimization Program and the Military and Family Life Consultant Program offer assistance with stress management.

“If you start feeling daily stress or like you can’t function, talk to someone; whether it’s professional assistance or just talking to someone who makes you feel better,” said Hardin. “Figure out how to deal with it before it gets too chronic and starts to affect everything.”