Stress and Anger as Psychological "Luxuries" We Can't Afford

Most people think of stress and anger as simply part of life. We have to put up with them because they come with the territory of living. However, research increasingly indicates that both of these take a negative toll on our minds, bodies, and relationships.

Certainly, they are not totally avoidable. Some degree of stress is healthy for the body and mind. It actually strengthens us. But the old saying of Nietzche is not true--"Whatever does not kill me makes me stronger." In fact, what does not kill us may kill off brain cells and add fat to our waist. Excessive stress has been shown to harm cells in the hippocampus, which is a part of the brain central to storing memories. It has also been shown to lower the immune system's ability to fight off infection. Depression and anxiety can be triggered by stress in some individuals. For others, stress may lead to unhealthy use of alcohol and other substances.

The goal of the healthy individual need not be to eliminate stress altogether but to avoid very high, unusual levels of stress if possible. How can this be done? Many people believe that the stress they experience is totally beyond their control. But it is not. Here are some things which can be done to diminish stress.

First, live a healthy lifestyle. Do the obvious. That is, don't take excessive risks financially. Nurture and nourish relationships. Build for the future in both finances and social support.

Secondly, work on any excessive negative thinking. My web site has several handouts on how to do this (http://www.drbeckham.com/). Very often 50% or more of the stress we experience is of our own making from excessive negative thinking.

Deal with problems slowly, methodically, one at a time. Don't avoid problems. They will just pile up. And don't try to take on all problems at once. That will just overwhelm you.
Most of my clients have one of two different problems: either excessive negative thinking or avoiding problems. Working these two areas can do wonders for a person's stress level.

Next week: the "luxury" of anger.