The Undiagnosed Epidemic of Stress Addiction (Part 2)
April - Stress Awareness Month
THE UNDERLYING FEARS OF RECOVERY
Continuing our conversation about stress addiction this Stress Awareness Month, let's delve deeper into why embracing recovery can be daunting and explore resources that can aid in this transformative journey.
WHY THE FEAR OF RECOVERY?
Becoming a "recovering stress addict" is a path less traveled, and understandably so. Here's why:
Cultural Stigma: Society often equates stress with hard work and success. Reducing stress might be misconstrued as lacking ambition.
Identity Crisis: For many, being constantly busy has become a part of their identity. Letting go of this can feel like losing a sense of self.
Fear of Slowing Down: There's an underlying worry that without stress, progress will halt, and we'll fall behind in our personal and professional lives.
Comfort in Familiarity: Stress can be familiar and oddly comforting despite its negative impacts. Stepping out of this comfort zone is challenging.
RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & RECOVERY
To aid in understanding and overcoming stress addiction, I recommend the following resources:
BOOKS:
"Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers" by Robert M. Sapolsky
"The Upside of Stress" by Kelly McGonigal
Shifting: The Double Lives of Black Women in America, by Charisse Jones and Kumea Shorter-Gooden, Ph.D.
Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human, Cole Arthur Riley
Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
WEBSITES & ARTICLES:
American Psychological Association (APA) - Stress
Mindful.org: Articles on mindfulness and stress management.
APPS FOR MINDFULNESS & MEDITATION:
Headspace
Calm
LOCAL OR ONLINE WORKSHOPS FOCUSING ON STRESS REDUCTION TECHNIQUES
12 Steps for Stress Addicts Anonymous [Part 1]
The journey towards becoming a recovering stress addict is not just about reducing the hours we work or taking more vacations. It's about a profound shift in mindset – valuing quality over quantity, understanding the importance of rest, and redefining what success looks like.
This Stress Awareness Month, let's take the brave step towards recognizing our stress addiction and seeking a more grounded, fulfilling life. Remember, the journey of recovery is not one to be walked alone. It is a path we traverse as a community, supporting and uplifting each other.
Together, we can redefine success and wellness.
This newsletter offers support and resources while addressing the common fears of changing deeply ingrained stress habits.
