Managing Stress for a Healthier Mind and Body
By Alesha Kozlowski, ALC
April is Stress Awareness Month — a vital reminder that stress is more than feeling overwhelmed; unmanaged stress can significantly increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and physical health problems.
At New Beginnings Counseling (NBC), we are committed to helping you build healthy coping strategies that are sustainable and effective. Our therapists provide individualized care designed to address the underlying causes of stress and teach you evidence-based techniques to manage life’s demands, supporting your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing irritability, fatigue, sleep difficulties, or difficulty concentrating, we encourage you to seek support. Therapy can help you regain emotional balance, improve physical health, and restore healthy functioning.
Why Managing Stress Matters
Chronic stress is not just emotionally draining—it can rewire your brain’s stress response system over time, leading to:
Heightened anxiety and persistent worry
Depressive symptoms such as hopelessness or emotional numbness
Difficulty with memory, focus, and decision-making
Increased risk of heart disease, digestive issues, and autoimmune conditions
Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue
Emotional withdrawal and strained relationships
Addressing stress early helps prevent these long-term complications and supports better outcomes in both mental and physical health.
Helpful Tips
Managing stress effectively is a skill that can be learned and strengthened over time. Here are evidence-based strategies I often recommend to my clients:
Practice intentional breathing exercises daily. Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to lower cortisol levels and decrease anxiety. Start with five minutes in the morning or before bed.
Prioritize movement, not perfection. Regular physical activity—even simple stretching, yoga, or walking—can reduce stress hormones and improve mood stability. Focus on consistency rather than intensity.
Set realistic boundaries around work and personal obligations. Learning to say "no" respectfully protects your time, emotional energy, and physical health. Therapy can help you practice setting healthy boundaries with confidence.
Cultivate self-compassion. Stress often worsens when we judge ourselves harshly for struggling. Practice talking to yourself with the same kindness you would offer a close friend.
Develop a predictable daily structure. Structure gives your brain cues for when to work, rest, and recharge. This can significantly reduce feelings of chaos and overwhelm.
Stay connected with safe, supportive people. Meaningful social relationships act as a buffer against stress. Isolation amplifies emotional distress, while connection promotes healing.
When to Seek Additional Support
If you find yourself overwhelmed, emotionally detached, constantly exhausted, or physically unwell despite trying basic stress management techniques, therapy may be necessary. Counseling provides personalized support to address the deeper roots of chronic stress and teach you specialized coping strategies tailored to your unique situation.
You do not have to manage stress alone. Therapy is an essential tool for healing, not just a last resort.
Let's work together to help you build resilience, reclaim emotional balance, and create a healthier path forward.
Schedule your therapy session with New Beginnings Counseling today:
📞 (334) 293-1411
🌐 www.nbcounselingllc.com
🔗 Click here to book directly online
