November 1, 2023: International Stress Awareness Day
The Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (MAP) recognizes International Stress Awareness Day to encourage workers to proactively reflect upon how they may respond to the pressures of everyday life. While emotional stress is a normal reaction to certain life events or situations, managing it effectively can sometimes present a challenge. If mismanaged over time, emotional stress can have negative implications for your physical health, behavioral health, relationships, and other important areas of one's life.
If recently you have consistently experienced any of the following feelings, you may benefit from stress management support services (such as those which can be obtained by calling BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK):
- Strained
- Inadequate
- Overextended
- Insecure
- Stuck
- Swamped by responsibilities
- As though the odds are stacked against you
- That there is not enough time to get everything done
- As though you cannot cope
- Have a lot on your mind
- Powerless
- Overcommitted
- As though things keep piling up
- As though you do not have time to breathe
- As though things are going very poorly
- As though you are carrying too heavy a load
- As though you want to give up
- On edge
- As though you cannot concentrate or solve problems
Additional potential warning signs and symptoms of undealt with stress, which can also be an indicator that it may be time to get help, include:
- Chest heaviness or pain
- Shoulder, neck, back, or general pain
- Headaches
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Feelings of tiredness, anxiousness, or depression
- Changes in eating and/or sleeping habits
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Using substances to relieve emotional pain
MAP wants BAC members to know that addressing stress, especially when it has become difficult to manage, is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it is an essential step toward a happier and healthier life. To further discuss the role that stress plays in your life and obtain guidance on stress management, please call BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 support from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.