WORK IN PROGRESS COUNSELING SERVICES, LLC
Issue No. 2

Greetings!

Have you ever flown on a commercial flight? If so, you probably remember the smiling flight attendant standing up in the front prior to take off, giving the emergency procedures speech. "The exits are located here, here, and here..." As a part of that speech she also said, "In the event of a loss of cabin pressure, the emergency oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling above you."   Here is where things get interesting. "If you are traveling with small children or people who need assistance, First, place the mask over your own nose and mouth; then, assist others."

 

Imagine that!! How selfish, right?!

True love is all about sacrifice, right? Mothers and fathers put the needs of the children first. Adult children put their own needs aside to care for elderly or ill parents. People in health care, education, and social services are too busy taking care of others to do for themselves.

These people and many others neglect their own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health in an effort to care for everyone else.  

For you to be able to help ANYONE , it is imperative that you TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST!!   
 
For more information, please visit my website www.WorkinProgresscounseling.com.

 

To schedule an appointment, call (205) 994-4563. 

  

Sincerely,
Cherie May, LPC
Work In Progress Counseling, LLC

 

Healthy Coping Strategies part II

Professional caregivers include teachers, social workers, counselors, nurses, and doctors.  Then, there are those who don't do it professionally moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers, and so forth. Any person who takes care of other , people can be considered a caregiver.

Being a caregiver, professionally or otherwise, can be very stressful. It is very important to recognize the stress warning signs and symptoms to avoid burnout. Stress is more manageable when you take care of yourself, by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
  1. Exercise regularly.  Make time for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week. Nothing is better than aerobic exercise (i.e. walking, running, zumba, etc.) for releasing pent-up stress and tension. 
  2. Eat a healthy diet.  Start your day right with breakfast, and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day.
  3. Reduce caffeine and sugar. By reducing the amount of coffee, soft drinks, chocolate, and sugar snacks in your diet, you'll feel more relaxed and you'll sleep better.
  4. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. Self- medicating may provide a quick escape, but the reprieve is temporary and may compound the problem. Do not avoid or mask the issue at hand; deal with problems head on and with a clear mind.
  5. Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep fuels your mind, as well as your body. Feeling tired will increase your stress because it may cause you to think and act irrationally.
  6. Set aside relaxation time. Include rest and relaxation in your daily schedule. Do not allow other duties to intrude. This is your time to take a break from all responsibilities, rejuvenate, and recharge. 
  7. Connect with others. Spend time with positive people who enhance your life. A strong support system will protect you from the negative impact of stress.
  8. Do something you enjoy every day. Make time for non work-related activities that bring you joy, whether it be stargazing, playing the piano, reading a book, or working on your bike.
  9. Keep your sense of humor. This includes the ability to laugh at yourself. The act of laughing helps your body fight stress.
  10. Ask for HELP when you need it. There is no rule that you must bear all the burdens of life alone. Seek the help from family, friends, and professionals that you need. 
Work in Progress Counseling, LLC
Corporate East Building
213 Gadsden Hwy Suite 102
Birmingham, AL 35235 
In This Issue
Healthy Coping Strategies part 2
Stress-- signs and symptoms
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Stress 

  

According to dictionary.com, stress is   mental, emotional, or physical strain,   tension,  pull, or other force exerted on one thing by another; strain.  

 

Day to day, life happens. This so-called life is full of problems, people, and situations. For many, stress has become the norm. Stress is not necessarily a bad thing. In small doses, stress can be the driving force to help you accomplish much that should be done. However, if you are constantly running in crisis mode, your mental and physical health will begin to suffer.

 

You can prevent burnout or stress overload by recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress and taking steps to reduce its harmful effects.

  

Warning Signs & Symptoms 

 

Physical Symptoms
  • Headaches
  • Body aches and pains
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea, dizziness
  • Chest pain, rapid heartbeat
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Frequent colds

Cognitive Symptoms

  • Memory problems
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Poor judgment
  • Seeing only the negative
  • Anxious or racing thoughts
  • Constant worrying
Emotional Symptoms
  • Moodiness
  • Irritability or short temper
  • Agitation, inability to relax
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Sense of loneliness and isolation
  • Depression or general unhappiness

Behavioral Symptoms

  • Eating more or less
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Isolating yourself from others
  • Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities
  • Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax
  • Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)


The Mission of Work in Progress Counseling, LLC is to provide direction, guidance, and support in a safe environment for those who desire emotional, relational, and spiritual healing.