Dealing with Family Stress

The Smith family feels like they are under attack. Stress is making it difficult to stay positive and move forward. When stress hits, they need ways to reduce that stress.

God is our number one stress reducing resource. Scriptures tell us to cry out to God, to cast our cares on Him and He will relieve the burden and bring peace. God promises His presence and that He will walk us through stressful times. During stress, remember, He is an ever present help in times of trouble.

When possible, deal with stress. Once stress is noticed, families need to be proactive develop strategies tor reduce stress when and where they can. For example, if the stress is financial, cut back on spending or get a part time job.  

During stress, do things together and have a little fun. This goes a long way to reduce stress. Watch a funny movie, pray together, play a game, take walks, attend free community activities, etc. When life throws us serious stressors, we can create moments of distraction and relaxation in order to relieve the constant pressure.

So, pay attention to signs of stress. The signs are listed below. Then, have a few strategies to relieve some of the pressure, such as laughter and mini breaks from stress. Most of all, put your trust and faith in God to walk you through the stressful time, knowing He is with you and will give you what you need to come out the other side.

Eight Signs of Stress

You know you need to do something about stress when…

1. eating habits or sleeping patterns change.
2. people feel tired and down most of the time and there is no physical explanation.
3. significant weight gain or loss is noticed.
4. people feel anxious and irritable more often than normal.
5. someone complains of consistent headaches and or stomachaches, a signal that the body is in overload.
6. a child or parent begins abusing alcohol or using drugs.
7. children skip school, have failing grades, or begin to isolate.
8. promiscuous or risk behavior begins to emerge.

For more help with stress, check out my book, Breaking Free from Stress.