Stress refers to a feeling of being unsatisfied emotionally or physically, which can cause frustration, anger, or depression if not handled. Joseph, a 63-year-old retired man, married to a young wife of 30 years, is experiencing headaches on how to make savings fearing that his retirement may end. In addition, his wife involves in daily quarrels because she is not used to staying with him all day long. The below steps will help Joseph cope with such trauma.
Joseph should be able to understand the meaning and effects of stress positively. In his case, he should accept that he did not fail by not saving some funds during his working period. The fact that his wife and he argue daily does not mean that there is no love between them, instead: he should view this situation as a problem prepared for him to conquer (Polizzi et al., 2020). Understanding this situation will allow him to accept the fact that stress does not occur as a result of failure.
Joseph should be able to identify what is stressing him most, which in this case it is financial issues and the fact that his wife is always annoyed with him because he is always around, and thus, she does not have the freedom that she so needs. After understanding this, he will avoid such anxiety by ensuring that he avoids being near his wife most of the time (Polizzi et al., 2020). Joseph has to accept that it is not possible to make savings at that age since he cannot reverse years. He should be able to learn the symptoms of stress in his life. In this case, Joseph is currently experiencing chest pain and breathing difficulties which are the signs of stress (Polizzi et al., 2020). Being aware of these indications will help him avoid the symptoms anytime he feels the presence.
He should at least develop ways of calming down anytime he is stressed. This may be through sharing with friends, taking rides, or alcohol, among other factors. This is important because it will help him forget all the problems he faces (Polizzi et al., 2020). Joseph should develop healthy policies to manage stress, such as meditation, which is essential to practice when facing strain (Polizzi et al., 2020). Making self-care a priority is another step Joseph should put into consideration. This may include enough sleep, exercise, sufficient food, and entertainment. This is important because it will help him forget his stressful conditions for a while. Asking for support when in need is a very significant step to follow. This may be seeking counseling from a health care expert, friends, or family member if he is depressed. This is important because he will feel relieved and withdraw from the stress wholly or partially.
If Joseph follows the above steps, he will be able to handle all forms of tension. This will mean that he will have a comfortable life free from anxiety. He will not encounter the health problems he is facing now, such as headaches, and back pain, among other ailments, because he will overcome all stressful situations (Polizzi et al., 2020). He will be happier and healthier and avoid thinking beyond his problems as much as he can afford to cater to basic needs (Polizzi et al., 2020). This means that he will be able to think clearly, function effectively, and enjoy the rest of his life.
Reference
Polizzi, C., Lynn, S. J., & Perry, A. (2020). Stress and coping in the time of COVID-19: Pathways to resilience and recovery. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 17(2), 59.