Stress 101: What’s Really Going On?
WHAT STRESS IS REALLY DOING TO YOU
Let’s talk about stress. We all experience it—whether it’s the mountain of emails waiting in your inbox, a screaming toddler in the cereal aisle, or just trying to figure out what to cook for dinner again (I see you, fellow meal-planners). Stress is that universal “friend” who shows up uninvited and overstays their welcome. But have you ever wondered what’s actually happening to your body and mind when you’re stressed out?
Stress is more than a feeling—it’s your body’s response to a perceived threat. Back in the day (think cavemen), stress helped people survive. When faced with a predator, the brain triggered fight-or-flight mode, flooding the body with cortisol and adrenaline. This was great for outrunning lions; not so much when the “lion” is an unexpected bill or a tense conversation with your boss.
HOW STRESS IMPACTS YOUR BODY AND MIND
In small doses, stress can motivate us. But when it becomes chronic, it stops being helpful. Consider the toll it takes:
Physically: Chronic headaches, fatigue, stomach issues, muscle tension, and even a weakened immune system.
Emotionally: Anxiety, irritability, sadness, and feelings of being overwhelmed.
Behaviorally: Overeating, under-eating, snapping at loved ones, procrastinating, or compulsively checking your phone.
Spiritually: Feeling disconnected from God, questioning your purpose, or struggling to find peace.
Stress doesn’t just affect your body—it also shapes your thoughts, behaviors, and environment. Reflect for a moment: How do you usually respond to stress? Do you overcommit to keep others happy, withdraw to avoid conflict, or dive into distractions like scrolling social media?
The Bible reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). God didn’t design us to carry stress alone. Instead, He invites us to lay our burdens at His feet, trusting that He will provide peace.
REFLECTION: HOW ARE YOU COPING WITH STRESS?
Take a moment to think about how you’re coping with stress in your daily life. Here are some questions to consider:
Do you find yourself reacting to stress in ways that align with your values?
Are there particular environments or situations that make your stress worse (e.g., cluttered spaces, chaotic schedules)?
How often do you pause to reflect or pray when you feel overwhelmed?
Are there people or habits in your life that contribute to or help reduce your stress?
By identifying your coping mechanisms, you can start to see what’s helping you manage stress and what’s adding to it.
BEHAVIORAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Your surroundings play a significant role in how you experience stress. A cluttered home, constant noise, or lack of downtime can amplify feelings of overwhelm. On the flip side, a peaceful, organized space and intentional breaks can create a buffer against stress.
Behaviorally, small habits add up. Do you reach for sugary snacks or caffeinated drinks to push through the day? Or maybe you scroll endlessly at night, delaying sleep? These behaviors might feel comforting in the moment but can fuel the stress cycle.
Here’s a quick exercise: Write down your go-to coping habits. For each one, ask yourself, “Is this truly helping me feel better in the long run?” If not, consider what might serve you better.
WHAT STRESS IS REALLY DOING TO YOU
When stress becomes chronic, it’s like a car running on empty. Sure, you can push it for a while, but eventually, it’ll break down. Chronic stress disrupts sleep, affects focus, and drains your ability to be present with loved ones. And let’s be honest—it’s hard to hear God’s voice when your mind is racing with worries.
TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY
Over the next few weeks, we’ll unpack stress and how to deal with it like a pro. For now, just breathe—literally. Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, signaling to your body that it’s safe to relax. Here’s how to start:
Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of 4.
Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 6.
Repeat five times.
Action Step: Take five minutes today to reflect on your current stressors. Write down three things causing you stress this week. Next to each one, jot down how you’ve been coping and whether it’s been effective. We’ll build on this exercise next time.
Stress doesn’t have to control your life. Counseling can provide tools to help you understand your stress, shift unhelpful patterns, and find peace. You don’t have to face it alone—we’re here to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges with faith and hope. Let’s explore this together.