Q: I am starting a new job... and it seems like, all of sudden, I cannot manage anything! I am losing my keys, forgetting my kids' soccer schedule... I can't even manage my body! I keep waking up at 5 AM worrying about what I forgot to do the day before. Help! I feel like I am going crazy! Am I?
A: Sounds like your life just got a lot more hectic with your "new beginning" in life. New beginnings = stress. Even if it is good stress; it is still stress. It is a common symptom of stress to have decreased concentration: losing your keys, not being able to keep a schedule or focus on what you need to. So you ARE NOT going crazy! Even the sleeping problem you described is a possible side effect of stress. One of the first things to do is get a physical from your doctor. Once you have been medically cleared, there are some simple (not always easy!) solutions. Make time in your day for quiet time. I know, you wonder how you can add one more thing to your life when it is already so busy! Giving 15 minutes to search His word and talk to the Lord, will result in being more effective all day. Exercise is also key. Try to work in about 30 minutes most days. Even if you do that in 10 minute breaks from work three times a day, it will give you a mental break. There are also many types of deep breathing and relaxation exercises that you can try. Do you have someone to talk to? In addition to calling on God, a listening girlfriend or pastoral staff member can really put things in perspective.
Lastly, if your stress, worry or anxiety is causing so much disruption that your marriage, employment, parenting or physical health is suffering, please seek professional help. There are various therapies, medications or some combination of the above that can get you back on track quickly!
Please e-mail us your questions about marriage, parenting, depression and relationships - or anything else you have wanted to know, but were afraid to ask. As a licensed therapist, and a Christian, I want to help you find some Godly answers that also make sense in today's world. Please e-mail your questions to:
Linda Hermann Wimpfheimer
Licensed Professional Counselor
National Certified Counselor
asklinda@inspirestl.com