Stress is a natural response to any kind of demand put on the body and mind. It comes from both positive and negative experiences. It is, however, more than a state of mind, it is also a physical reaction. Your body releases chemicals that give you more energy and strength which is helpful if you are in danger or doing something physical. Adversely, if the stress comes from something emotional, it can difficult to deal with.
There is a strong connection between stress and substance abuse. Some people have a natural ability to cope with certain kinds of stress with what seems little effort. Others, develop behaviors to help them deal, like exercise routines or hobbies. Still, others medicate the stress with drugs and alcohol and this can lead to addiction and abuse.
When you find yourself stressed, your body is experiencing a chemical overload. Your adrenal glands produce Adrenaline, the primary chemical in the fight, flight or freeze response, increases heart rate and energy. People who have lived with trauma often make too much of this hormone and might overreact to something that seems small to others.
Under stress, you might find yourself more aware and focused- this is caused by norepinephrine. Finally, your brain starts releasing cortisol, which manages the physical things like blood pressure and digestion.
Managing Stress With Co-Occurring Disorders
Learning to cope with stress is a major component of recovery, and many people living with addiction become addicted to deal with the stress from mental illness. Rather than addressing the illness, they cover with addiction. When you decide to get healthy, you need to find a way to face the core reasons for your addiction. You can do this on a daily basis by going to meetings or support groups, your peers there might be able to offer insight into everyday living. They may offer suggestions or simply support, which can get you through a crisis.
Sitting down with a professional counselor or therapist gets into the details of the trauma or disorder. They will use a variety of tools to help you build a long-term plan and develop personalized coping mechanisms that will reduce the continuing stress of your illness and the reasons behind it.
Learning how to cope with stress effectively will bolster your recovery. Taking the first step in itself can be stressful but Fort Worth Recovery can walk you through the process. We are skilled and compassionate, and you are worth it. The first step is always the hardest- take a breath and pick up the phone. It can save your life. Call us at 817 382 2894 or contact us online today.
