The Madison Senior Living Explores Stress and Anxiety Management

Each day we go through our lives making decisions, worrying about the future, or maybe having concern about our health. It is only natural that we experience both stress and anxiety in some form at some level. Stress is defined as any demand placed on your brain or physical body, while anxiety is specified as fear, worry, or unease. Although defined differently, they are connected and share the same symptoms. Most of us experience stress, anxiety, or both at some point, whether from work or our personal life.

At The Madison Senior Living we are aware of proven techniques to help ease the symptoms of stress and anxiety, including lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet. We also know unmanaged stress and anxiety can interfere with your daily life and affect your physical and mental health.

For me, stress and anxiety feel like a pinching feeling between my shoulder blades and an increased heart rate. Some residents report feelings of agitation, a shorter temper, being overwhelmed, and having difficulty focusing. The causes and triggers of stress and anxiety for me is disorganization and chaotic procedures. Residents report it’s when their routine is broken, or their things are out of place.

The symptoms stress and anxiety can cause include increased heart rate and breathing, grinding of teeth, agitation, feeling overwhelmed, and difficulty to focus. The techniques I use to decrease symptoms of stress and anxiety are organizing my week, making time for de-stressing, and creating a work/life balance. Residents like to participate in activities of interest, provide for others, or volunteer.

Some stress and anxiety are expected, but if you feel it becoming unmanageable and affecting your daily life, a healthcare professional can help you develop new coping skills.