Mental Health Month was created more than 50 years ago to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental wellness for all.  The month of May is known as such throughout the entire country.  I would like to discuss a topic related to mental health that affects us all on a daily basis: stress.

We all go through stressful times.  In small doses, stress may be good for you when it gives you a burst of energy.  But too much stress or stress that lasts for a long time can take its toll on your body.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, you’re not alone.  In fact, a 2007 survey of Americans found that one-third of the population in our country lives with extreme stress.

STRESS: KNOW THE SIGNS
Are you experiencing any of these signs of stress?

• Feeling angry, irritable or easily frustrated
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Change in eating habits
• Problems concentrating
• Feeling nervous or anxious
• Trouble sleeping
• Problems with memory
• Feeling burned out from work
• Feeling that you can’t overcome difficulties in your life
• Having trouble functioning in your job or personal life

If you’re having any of these symptoms, it’s important that you take care of yourself.  There are healthy steps you can take to stay well when you’re stressed, like connecting to people close to you, getting enough sleep, or being physically active.

If you feel overwhelmed, unable to cope and feel as though your stress is affecting how you function every day, it could be something more, like depression or anxiety. Don’t let it go unchecked.  Contact your health provider.









By Miami-Dade State Attorney
Katherine Fernandez Rundle