HOW TO DEAL WITH ANXIETY, STRESS, AND TENSION?

Recently, I’ve been hearing the following phrases often around me:

“I’m extremely tense.”
“I’m worried.”
“I’m stressed.”
“And I don’t know what to do.”

As a society, we’ve found ourselves in a state of feeling stuck. I’ve listed the possible reasons for this below:

Economic difficulties: People are facing financial struggles due to factors like high inflation, unemployment, and economic uncertainty. This situation can cause anxiety due to the rising cost of living, high prices, and economic instability.
Social and political tensions: Political and social issues in Turkey can sometimes lead to tensions. Political debates, polarization, social inequality, and human rights violations can distress people and create stress.
Earthquake, pandemic, and health concerns: The recent major earthquake shook the country, and we lost loved ones. We questioned how safe we are in our own homes. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect people in Turkey, just as it does around the world. Health concerns during the pandemic, restrictions, and the social and economic impacts of the pandemic have caused distress.
Work stress and competition: Factors like intense work pace, job insecurity, and competition in the workplace can lead to stress and frustration. Long working hours and a strained work-life balance can also create problems. Alongside a very intense work schedule, some people fear losing their job, while others fear not finding one, which can add to the list.
The education system: Students, teachers, and parents may have concerns about the education system. Issues like online learning, exam pressure, inequalities, and the tutoring system can stress people out.

Of course, the issues that distress individuals vary, but these are some general patterns.

So, what can we do in this situation? How can we relax ourselves even a little bit in these circumstances?

When faced with these situations, following the steps below might help you manage:

Take time for yourself: Set aside time regularly for yourself and address your needs. Engage in hobbies, exercise, and practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises to manage stress.
Build a support network: Create a support system where you can share your concerns. Connect with family members, friends, or a therapist or counselor who can provide professional support. Venting and receiving emotional support can help you cope with your struggles.
Gain knowledge and make a plan: Learn more about the issues that concern you. For example, to cope with financial difficulties, research budget planning and saving strategies. You can also gather information from reliable sources about health and take preventive measures to protect your well-being. Being informed can help you better manage your concerns.
Develop a positive outlook: Try to cultivate a positive perspective rather than focusing on negative thoughts. Motivate yourself to turn challenges into opportunities. Positive thinking can help reduce stress and keep you solution-oriented.
Take care of yourself: Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Get regular sleep, eat a balanced diet, and engage in physical activity. Taking care of yourself boosts your energy, helps you manage stress, and enhances your overall quality of life.
Set goals and take action: Set small goals to deal with your difficulties and progress step by step. Make concrete plans to overcome problems and take actions to implement those plans. As you achieve success, you’ll feel more motivated and empowered to tackle your challenges.

Remember, everyone’s struggles are different, and each person’s coping mechanisms may vary. If your difficulties persist, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.

Wishing you peaceful and healthy days…

Beyza TUNCA