Yes, we’re stressed. But you can find plenty of help in Kansas City | Opinion
Stress affects everyone in our daily routine. Whether you notice panic at the grocery store as someone races down the aisles or see the anxiety on a coworker’s face as they rush to finish a project, stress is all around us. While the drivers of stress differ, we all need ways to cope when we feel overwhelmed. April marks National Stress Awareness Month and allows us to shed light on the importance of recognizing and facing stress. Stress can affect a person’s physical, emotional and behavioral well-being. So, let’s pause, take a deep breath and explore how we can inhale peace and exhale stress.
As a therapist, I’ve seen the impact of stress on our community firsthand, with more than half my clients experiencing an increase in anxiety symptoms. The Kansas City area has noticed an increase in food and housing prices, barriers to receiving care and unemployment. This correlates with recent research from Thriveworks that found that personal finance and the rising cost of living (54%), relationship dynamics (42%), job security (32%) and crime (29%) are some of the top stressors for most Americans. The report also found that 27% of individuals who want to seek therapy don’t because of cost concerns. In my practice, many clients feel anxious and beaten down by the increased food prices, housing costs and job loss. Many also report not feeling safe because of our city’s increase in crime. They have voiced concerns about feeling unsafe in everyday situations such as going to the store or walking alone at night. When we are constantly stressed, it tends to spill over into our relationships, fueling tension between the people we are closest to at home.
When you start to feel signs of stress, it can be hard to slow down and give your body the rest it needs. Take stress and its symptoms seriously. Chronic stress can contribute to physical symptoms such as heart disease, sleep issues and gastrointestinal problems. Remaining stressed for an extended period can cause you to feel perpetually exhausted or even sick.
Everyone responds and copes with stress differently. I encourage you to build and nurture your support system. Get out in your community, or check out Facebook or Meetup to find others who share your interests. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, call a friend and make plans to do something you enjoy. Walking and getting some sunshine can help melt the stress away. Try getting outside at Penn Valley Park, or grabbing a bite and enjoying a comfortable spot (I’m a fan of OurHouseKC’s patio). Maybe you need the dopamine of a good workout or the relaxation of a nice bubble bath. Find what works best for you.
Sometimes, self-care alone won’t help ease your stress. Local resources such as KCCAT and the National Alliance on Mental Issues Greater Kansas City can help you find the right stress management tool that works best for you. You may also consider seeking professional support. Counseling can help a person identify and manage their specific stressors. Many local counseling centers take insurance or offer little to no-cost services. Other local resources that can be found are the Johnson County Mental Health Center and Beacon Mental Health. You can also reach out anytime to the 988 mental health crisis line to reach a professional for immediate support without waiting.
It’s great to bring awareness to stress this month, but stress has year-round impacts. This April, start habits and implement strategies to help you deal with the impacts of stress throughout the year. When you start to feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath in, and make the choice not to let the stressors overwhelm you. You aren’t alone, and it’s OK to ask for help.