TRAC Intermodal’s Post

As passionate foodies, we usually pride ourselves on our ability to handle stress and tackle the inevitable “plot twists” head-on. But what happens when that stress becomes too much to handle? For me, it often takes someone else to point out the signs before I even realize I'm stressed. I've learned to listen to others when they notice my behaviour changing. It's not always easy to hear, but it's necessary to take action before it's too late. Here are some signs that others have noticed in me when I'm stressed: 😡defensiveness 🤷🏼♀️overreactions 😫trouble relaxing 🥱 broken sleep 🍹using unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol or food. But there are also physical signs that I've learned to tune into, like: 🤕 tension headaches 👂ringing in my ears 😮💨 shallow breathing 💪🏻 tense muscles 💩 digestive issues. These signs may be different for everyone, but they are important to pay attention to. As a chronic illness sufferer, I know all too well the consequences of ignoring these signs. So I urge you, if you notice any of these signs in yourself, take action before it's too late. Don't wait until your body is shouting at you to listen (like mine did this week when it took my voice away!!) Let's prioritize our mental and physical health. #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #stressmanagement #stressawarenessmonth

In the midst of life’s hustle and bustle, it is essential to take a step back and recognize when your body is desperately seeking help. Know the symptoms of stress: PHYSICAL: muscle tension, headaches, elevated blood pressure, weakened immune system, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, rapid breathing MENTAL: irritability, mood swings, excessive worry, cynicism, sadness, shame, feelings of failure BEHAVIOURAL: overeating/lack of eating, alcohol/drug use, withdrawal, arguing/fighting, declining work performance, poor time management, clumsiness This serves as a gentle reminder to attentively listen to your body and prioritize your well-being. You are important. #WellnessWednesday #YouMatter #AdjusterSelfCare #AccomsureCares

Did you know? 🐠 Watching fish swim in a pond or aquarium can reduce our heart rate and promote feelings of relaxation. 🎤 Singing in the shower can drastically reduce cortisol levels (our primary stress hormone) - whether you sound like Adele or not. These are two of the takeaways I presented in alignment with #NationalStressAwarenessMonth during a weekly meeting at #Jacobs. Stress can impact all of us, no matter what stage of our lives or careers. Noticing how our own body responds to stress, both physically and mentally and reaching out to friends, family and colleagues when these responses become unmanageable, is key to preventing chronic stress and burnout. This years theme of #LittleByLittle promotes the small actions we can take to make significant improvements in our overall wellbeing.

Struggling to quit alcohol for just a month? You're not alone. Here are three common reasons why it's challenging: Social Pressure: From happy hours to family gatherings, alcohol often plays a central role in socializing. Saying no can feel like swimming against the tide. Emotional Crutch: Many turn to alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness. Breaking free from this reliance can be daunting without alternative coping mechanisms in place. Habitual Patterns: Daily routines often revolve around alcohol, whether it's a nightly glass of wine or a beer after work. Breaking these ingrained habits requires conscious effort and dedication. But remember, overcoming these challenges is possible! With determination, support, and healthier coping strategies, you can break free from the grip of alcohol and embrace a happier, healthier lifestyle. 🌟 #QuitAlcohol #YouGotThis

𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐒! 𝟏. 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐝: A simple task like making your bed can set a positive tone and give you a sense of accomplishment. 𝟐. 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞: A short walk around the block can boost your mood. Fresh air and sunlight are natural mood boosters! 𝟑. 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞: Routines create stability and reduce decision fatigue. Try setting consistent sleep, meal, and work times. 𝟒. 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞: Spend time in green spaces. Studies show that even a few minutes in nature can reduce stress and improve well-being. 𝟓. 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you're thankful for. Focusing on the positive can shift your mindset. Tag a healthcare colleague who deserves a high-five! 🙌 #healthcare #doctor #depression

“Ever felt like you’re walking on eggshells in a relationship? 🥚💔 Stress from navigating delicate situations can actually exacerbate chronic pain symptoms. It certainly can set off alarms in our nervous systems! Here are some ways to ease that tension: 1. Open Communication: Speak openly with your partner about your feelings and needs. Honest conversations, though sometimes hard, can relieve emotional strain. 2. Boundaries: Set clear boundaries to protect your physical and emotional well-being. Respect each other’s space and limits. 3. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care. This can be alone time, drinking water, exercising or prioritizing more sleep. 4. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to navigate challenging dynamics. Remember, we all deserve to prioritize our health and happiness in any relationship! 💖 #RelationshipStress #ChronicPain #PainScience

This is what #stress & #burnout can look like... This was me 11 years ago, just a few months before I had my #breakdown, my pivotal #stresscontainer overflow which changed my life path, my friendship groups and even nearly my relationship. Behind the smiles & happy exterior, I was experiencing anxiety, insomnia, tearfulness, frequent urination (high cortisol levels), skin issues, digestive problems and overall numbness of life. This photo shows none of that! That night, I ate, I drank, I laughed, I danced - no one would have known, I wore the mask well (until I got home). Why am I sharing today? Well, we are almost at the end of #mentalhealthawarenessweek and it's a great reminder that #mentalhealth can look very different for everyone. I am passionate about helping to continually drive #mentalhealthawareness & #stressawareness as sometimes the signals just aren't there... #wellbeing #wellness #employeewellbeing #employeementalhealth #stressreduction #metahealth #itsokaynottobeokay #itsgoodtotalk #vulnerability #psychologicalsafety

Stressed at the office and feeling overwhelmed with work? But you’ve gotta be healthy, so you go to the gym… Go home and eat a tub of ice cream and a packet of Dorito’s feeling sorry for yourself. Maybe watch a whole season of peaky blinders Sleep like shit… REPEAT Stress comes in three forms. 1) CHEMICAL eg/ toxicity, infection, dysglycemia 2) MECHANICAL eg/ sedentary, trauma, postural issues 3) EMOTIONAL eg/ Fear, overwhelm, grief, anxiety, depression Stress is present in 100% of all diseases. Learn to manage your stress and you’ll live a healthier life. #health #stress #stressmanagement #healthylifestyle

Did you know April is Stress Awareness Month? Stress affects us all, but understanding its impact is the first step towards managing it effectively. Stress can manifest both physically and psychologically. It's true! Physically, stress can lead to headaches, muscle tension, and even digestive issues. Psychologically, it can cause anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. After a busy day at work and juggling life's demands, what are your best ways to de-stress? Comment below and share your tips with the NEVAC community! Your suggestions could inspire others to find their moments of peace, whether going for a walk, enjoying a good book, or simply unwinding with some calming music. #NEVAC2024 #StressAwarenessMonth

"Just because you've dealt with a stressor, that doesn't mean you've dealt with the stress itself. And you have to deal with the stress - 'complete the cycle' - or it will slowly kill you." Burnout can have physical impact on your health, including headaches, getting sick, and digestive issues. Psychosomatic symptoms are defined as, "Physical complaints exacerbated by workplace stress: Chest pain, digestive issues, headaches, muscle pain, and sickness." Are you feeling the weight of burnout everyday? It's time to focus on authentic well-being. Let's work together to assess your symptoms and develop an equitable recovery plan. #BurnoutRecovery #StressManagement #CompleteTheCycle #EricFSantamaria #Burnout