Released February 11, 2009
LOGAN, Utah – People who are emotionally healthy are generally aware of their feelings, thoughts and behaviors. They have learned skills to cope with stress and problems that are a normal part of life. However, many life events can disrupt emotional health and lead to feelings of sadness, stress or anxiety. Both good and bad events can cause strong emotions. Examples include getting married or divorced, suffering from an injury or illness, having a child leave or return home, having a baby, changes in employment, financial difficulties or moving.
Our bodies tend to respond to the way we think, feel and act. This interaction is referred to as the “mind/body connection.” When we are stressed, anxious or upset, our bodies often try to tell us something isn’t right by displaying a physical symptom to get our attention. Some include headache, stomach ache, sudden weight gain or loss, trouble sleeping or extreme tiredness.
When we do not feel well emotionally, we are often less likely to exercise, eat nutritious foods or maintain healthy habits. All of these may lead to a decrease in our body’s immune system, which can cause colds or infections.
It is important to recognize your emotions and understand why you are experiencing them. Sorting out the root of negative feelings can help you know what to do to improve your situation and manage your emotional health. Consider the following techniques to improve your emotional well being.
• Express your feelings in appropriate ways. If feelings of stress, sadness or anxiety are causing physical problems, keeping the feelings inside can make you feel worse. It’s important to let others know when something is bothering you. But keep in mind that your family and friends may not be able to help you work though everything you are experiencing, and it may become necessary to seek advice and support from a counselor or religious leader.
• Take care of yourself. In order to feel your best, it is important to take care of your body by having a regular routine for eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep and exercising to relieve pent-up tension. Avoid overeating, using alcohol or drugs, or any other behaviors that assist in “running away.” This could cause further problems or possible addiction.
• Calm your body and mind.Find activities that help you relax such as deep breathing, meditation, taking a bath or walking in nature. They can help you find a healthy release and bring your emotions into balance.
• Live a balanced life. While it is important to deal with negative feelings rather than just “stuffing them in,” it is also important to focus on the positive things in life and make time for things you enjoy. Consider keeping a journal of things you are grateful for or things that help you feel peaceful or happy. You may also need to find a way to get rid of things in your life that make you feel stressed and overwhelmed.
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http://extension.usu.edu/htm/news/articleID=4225
Contact: Julene Reese, 435-797-0810, julener@ext.usu.edu
