Stress

Whether it stems from work demands, interpersonal conflict, health concerns, or any combination of unique factors, excessive stress can affect every aspect of your life. At HC Mental Health & Wellness in Florida and DC, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Hawley Campbell, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides personalized counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other effective tools to help you put guardrails around your stress and live the life you want. Schedule a telehealth appointment with Hawley by calling the office or using the online scheduler today. 

How does stress impact my overall wellness?

Stress doesn’t only affect your mind but your entire body, keeping you in a heightened “fight-or-flight” state. Left unchecked, this can lead to symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and getting sick more often.

You may feel overwhelmed, irritable, or anxious. It may affect your concentration, memory, and decision-making. Ongoing stress can make you more vulnerable to anxiety disorders or depression if left untreated.

Chronic stress can increase your blood pressure, putting you at higher risk for strokes or heart attacks. This is particularly the case if you also smoke, overeat, or avoid exercise, and all of these are common responses to too much stress in your life.

When should I talk to someone about my stress levels?

While occasional stress is normal, certain signs suggest it may be time to schedule a visit with Hawley, such as:

• Persistent anxiety or worry that feels difficult to control
• Frequent mood swings, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness
• Trouble sleeping or ongoing fatigue despite rest
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach issues, or unexplained aches
• Difficulty concentrating or completing daily tasks
• Increased use of alcohol, food, or other substances to cope
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or responsibilities

If stress is chipping away at the quality of your daily life, relationships, or work, schedule a convenient telehealth visit with HC Mental Health & Wellness.

How is stress treated?

Hawley works with you to understand your unique stressors and develop strategies that fit your life and goals. She may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you break negative patterns and approach stress with more empowerment. She can also teach you practical coping skills to manage stress in everyday situations.

In addition to therapy, Hawley can help you make specific lifestyle changes, such as:

• Improving sleep habits
• Incorporating regular exercise
• Practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques
• Setting healthier boundaries

In some cases, medication management may help control the symptoms of anxiety or depression that often go along with stress.

Stress may be common, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right support and tools, you can regain balance, improve your well-being, and feel more like yourself again. If you’re unsure whether your stress levels are healthy for you, reaching out for Hawley’s support can protect your health.

To start managing your stress, book a telehealth appointment online or call the HC Mental Health & Wellness office today.