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September 2009
On Mental Health
"Dealing with Stress" 
In This Issue
TOO MUCH STRESS
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Thank you for receiving our newsletter on mental health topics. We hope our monthly series will inform and enlighten you about some of the most common (and not-so-common) conditions people are dealing with today.
 
Please feel free to visit our Web site by clicking here should you have questions about any of the material, or if you wish to schedule an appointment.
 
What does stress mean? 
By Martha J. Sullivan, LMSW, ACSW
of the Counseling Associates staff Martha J. Sullivan, LMSW, ACSW
 
In our busy busy world, "STRESS" is a word we hear-and perhaps use-daily. It's used as a verb, a noun and an adjective. It's used to describe either loud or soft, often complex experiences of discomfort.

The good news is some stress is healthy and tolerable. It can sharpen our minds and senses and it can increase effective functioning. However, "TOO MUCH STRESS" compromises our ability to feel and function healthily. "TOO MUCH STRESS" diminishes our work performance, confounds our family, work and social relationships and our ability to make good decisions. "TOO MUCH STRESS" interferes and undermines, potentially, every facet of our physical health, including vascular functioning (stroke), heart, digestion and blood pressure.

Additionally, "TOO MUCH STRESS" affects every facet of our mental health, potentially resulting in:
*Headache
*Dizziness
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Panic
*Weepy episodes
*Confusion
*Impulsive behavior
*Self-destructiveness
*Loss of interest/pleasure in things we enjoy
*Diminished self-esteem
*Feelings of worthlessness
*Suicide or homicide
 
The symptoms of stress and the handling of stressful influences in our lives must be both correctly identified and systematically managed, effectively and routinely, in order for us to feel and function well and healthfully. Counseling Associates has qualified, professionally trained specialists who can help you understand and better manage the conditions and symptoms of "TOO MUCH STRESS." Frequently, relief can be achieved and experienced more quickly than anticipated. Delay in getting this help only extends the pains and costs of "TOO MUCH STRESS."
 
If you feel that you're experiencing "TOO MUCH STRESS," where should you turn?
If you feel you or someone you know could benefit from discussing stress-or any personal concerns-with someone, we can help. Counseling Associates' staff of more than 40 licensed psychologists, clinical social workers and psychiatrists provides an extensive array of services for people of all ages. Besides stress, we assist people in dealing with depression, anxiety, marital issues, drug and alcohol abuse and much more.
 
We are located in Farmington Hills, just south of 12 Mile Road, one block east of Farmington Road. For further information, please call us at (248) 848-1558 or visit our Web site by clicking here.
 
Sincerely,

Dr. Sidney H. Grossberg, Ph.D., Executive Director
Counseling Associates
33045 Hamilton Court, W-300
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
(248) 848-1558