Stressful situations, including deadlines, overwork, and complicated relationships, increase the potential for anxiety. Nonetheless, studies show stress often comes with benefits that, much like other addictions, are tough to kick.
Stress stimulates the central nervous system, causing a natural high. Anyone who works out knows physical exercise, which is a form of stress, can help them feel good. Indeed, many individuals recognize they are addicted to exercise because they enjoy the feel-good hormones arising from a strenuous, lengthy workout. Mental stress; however, isn’t always associated with elation, although it does trigger the production of gratifying hormones.
You end up thirsting for more stress and drama when you’re an anxiety addict. Hence individuals who stay in terrible relationships and those who create unnecessary drama; they unconsciously need to generate feel-good chemicals. Of course, the outcome is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you satisfy the urge to create helpful hormones, and on the other, you make your life more difficult.
Could you be described as a worrywart or drama queen or king? If so, you might be addicted to stress. Addicts inadvertently create problems, making mountains from bumps in the road or long lists of potential calamities to mull over.
They also exaggerate difficulties with language. “This job is killing me” and “I’m starving to death” are comments that suggest the situations addicts face are dire when they don’t warrant so much fuss.
Stress addicts aren’t happy; they need to manage problems and relax. One way to calm down is to remove yourself from stressful situations and go somewhere peaceful.
Meditation such as mindfulness can help to crave calmness instead of chaos. Practicing for twenty minutes a day will help you unwind and loosen your grip on stress. After a few weeks of regular meditation sessions, you’ll want less drama, more silence, and space in which to enjoy the moment without anxiety.
Creativity also works as a form of distraction from stress. Painting, dancing, and creative writing provide mini breaks from problems and allow your playful, fun side to shine.
You might be addicted to stress now, but you can recover. Take steps to exchange drama and anxiety for peace and calm, and your mind will get the message you’ve had enough of worry and trauma.
