Published in the Southwest Orlando Bulletin 5/2010

Those who allow their surroundings to dictate their moods, talk themselves out of having a good time, have a questionable balance between positive thinking and self-defeating thoughts, and worry whether they cope with stress in a healthy way should consider their emotional fitness.

Some common stressors are finances, careers, weddings, college deadlines, spring cleaning, family schedules and planning vacations.

The above topics have a positive value, and that gain is what is held onto while going through stressful times.

So why do people feel stressed if they are happy to be planning their weddings or vacations? It is called eustress. This is the stress evoked by positive emotions or events in one’s life. The body cannot physically discern between distress and eustress. The mind is so powerful that it convinces the body that all the planning and sacrificing is worth it, and it is right. People need to take vacations and participate in healthy activities that have a relaxation benefit or happiness sensation. Emotional health affects physical health, and both contribute to the quality of life.

If you believe you may not be balancing your thoughts or emotional health very well, it may be helpful to discuss this topic with a licensed mental health counselor. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services in Orlando today at 407-443-8862 to make an appointment.