The double burden of family and work has turned into a multiple load: working remotely, home schooling, new insecurities, plus social isolation mean that stress levels are chronically high. As depression and burnout threaten, you need to take the pressure off: restart with a stress-reducing treatment programme at the Park Igls health retreat in Tyrol!
A lack of energy, feeling burnt out, suffering sleep disorders … the symptoms and consequences of chronic stress are varied – and regrettably common. Today more than ever as the pandemic leaves its mark on body and mind. We all need to pay attention to the early warning signals. Both mentally and physically, stress manifests early, so the first route to improvement is serious self-reflection:
People live their lives at an ever increasing pace, and are faced with constantly mounting pressures both at work and in what little leisure time they have left. In addition, the social isolation and emotional overload caused by the pandemic leaves its mark on children and adults alike. Time to take action!
‘Studies show that one in three Europeans suffers one mental health episode, such as anxiety or depression, per year. Health insurance companies have been pointing to the rise in burnout sick days, while employee organisations and unions have condemned the unreasonable demands placed on the working population. Sociologists warn of increasing alienation and the psychosocial consequences of globalisation and labour market flexibilisation,’ Dr Melanie Blasbichler explains. The clinical, neuro and health psychologist at the Park Igls health retreat has seen this trend intensify massively due to the pandemic.
In addition to the multiple burdens of working from home, home schooling and a growing sense of insecurity, social isolation is a major problem. ‘Maslow’s hierarchy of needs places love and a sense of belonging right above the need for food and safety. However, social relationships already tended to be neglected before the pandemic as a result of our unhealthy obsession with social media,’ explains Dr Robertson. The social isolation caused by the pandemic has merely reinforced this social disconnection.
‘Be flexible, a team player and communicative! Take responsibility! Be creative and find personal fulfilment: it’s the stuff of self-help books and management seminars. Today’s employee is expected to sell not just their professional abilities, but ideally their soul as well,’ says our clinical and health psychologist Thomas Blasbichler (MA). In his view, this can easily lead to identity conflicts or psychological crises. Problems arise when a person loses all connection with their own self and no longer notices their feelings, needs, or bodies’ warning signals.
Psychological stress such as family worries, feelings of existential insecurity, or relationship problems lead to a permanently increased pulse and the release of stress hormones. This weakens the immune system. ‘The body’s natural reaction to stress can have a significant influence on our immune function, brain chemistry, blood sugar, hormonal balance and much more besides,’ adds Blasbichler. However, exercise and the right diet can have a positive impact on the way we respond to stress.
At Park Igls, the first stage of stress management coaching is to identify the triggers in day-to-day life. The coach then works with you to analyse your routine and identify possible changes. Stress management coaching also focuses on your ability to enjoy things as this can be helpful in creating a potential for topping up your energy reserves. At the same time, you learn to set realistic targets and concentrate on the things you can control.
Digital detox. Schedule regular mobile-free periods and restrict emailing to specific times of the day.
Schedule enjoyment into your everyday routine. But step beyond the customary chocolate and alcohol options, and don’t forget your other senses!
Boost your positive self-image. Trust in your ability to learn new things and thus to cope with unfamiliar or difficult tasks.
Stay in touch with yourself and your body. This will give you a realistic idea of your strength and potential, as well as boosting self-efficacy!
Choose one