Stress
What Is Stress?
By Hal Nevitt, LCSW/LISAC/CEAP
Stress is any change you must adapt to; stress is an every-day
fact of life, it is actually unavoidable and it can be in the form
of actual physical danger, falling in love, or even achieving
success.
All stress is not bad for our physical and mental health. In
fact some stress is desirable and essential to our lives. The
key is how we are able to respond to daily stressors.
Distress occurs when we perceive that the challenge facing us is
too difficult, is dangerous, or when we believe that we don't have
sufficient resources to deal with the challenge.
Stress Specific to Lawyers
The Psychological Cost of the Fight
The Trap of Billable Hours
The Cascade Effect of Technology
Public Perception
All of these issues when denied or minimized can contribute to
additional stressors and need to be addressed.
Creating Wellness
In order to create wellness, it is essential to develop and
follow good personal habits during your work day; for instance: eat
properly and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, take
mini-breaks to relax and rejuvenate, get up and out of the office
if even for a five-minute walk, learn and practice mini-exercise
routines, learn and practice systematic relaxation techniques,
learn and utilize meditation regimens, stop negative thoughts and
refute irrational ideas, visualize yourself succeeding, and be
sensitive to the stress of those around you - clients and
staff.
Physical/Mental Health Regimen
Exercise regularly- research indicates that
exercise has an overall positive effect on stress, depression,
anxiety, and other issues.
If you have been sedentary for some time, it is always best to
consult with a doctor prior to beginning a new regimen.
Furthermore, establishing a working relationship with a health care
provider, getting a regular physical exam, following the direction
of the health care provider, asking questions of the health care
provider and informing yourself on health care issues are all ways
to effective deal with stressors, and create wellness in your
life.
Recommended Reading
Davis, Shelman & McKay. The Relaxation and
Stress Reduction Workbook, 4th
Edition. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications, 1995.
Ellis, Albert. A Guide to Rational Living. Chatsworth:
Wilshire Book Co., 1998.
Burns, David. The Feeling Good Handbook. New York: The
Penguin Group, 1999.
If you have questions or concerns about yourself or another,
please contact the Member Assistance Program of the State Bar of
Arizona at 602.340.7334.