The following is adapted from an article by Tanaya Meaders, Georgia Baptist Health and Wellness Consultant.
C. S. Lewis once said, “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for extraordinary destinies.” The challenge with hardships is that they are also accompanied by stress. And while we desire the extraordinary destiny, we must be prepared to handle the stress.
What’s the major issue causing stress right now? COVID-19! We are now weeks into a different way of doing work, community, daily routines, church, and life in general. While adapting to these abnormal times and trying to establish rhythms and routines that protect us, our family, and our community, it is easy to become overwhelmed.
Stress is a natural physiological response that triggers hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Adrenaline and cortisol work together to increase our heart rate and energy and help with our fight or flight reflexes. Momentary stress in an emergency is good. Prolonged stress can be problematic. So, when we are in a period of extended stress, what should we do?
Evaluate Your Stress Level
- Make an honest evaluation of how you are doing.
- Utilize your spouse/significant others as accountability.
- Be aware of behavioral changes (eating, sleep, activity).
- Monitor your physical health (make note of significant changes).
- Monitor your mental health (depression, anxiousness, anger).
Implement Healthy Habits
Maintain spiritual disciplines
- Spend time daily in the Word and prayer.
- Participate in online worship and small groups.
- Create a blessings list.
Maintain contact with others
- Phone calls, texts, and handwritten cards or letters
- Look for prayer and gospel opportunities.
- Share accurate information about COVID-19; go to gabaptist.org for the latest information.
Take care of your body
- Maintain a schedule for eating, sleeping, working, relaxing, and exercise.
- Monitor your diet.
- Stay hydrated.
- Exercise daily.
- Wash hands thoroughly and often.
Take care of your mind
- Take breaks from TV, reading, working, social media and news (24/7 pandemic can be upsetting and confusing).
- Make time to unwind and do things you enjoy.
- Process your feelings with others.
- Do not compare yourself to others (stress creates different reactions).
- If overwhelmed, seek help.
Your Pastor Wellness team is praying for you and ready to serve! Be well!
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