Parkinson and stress
A little bit of stress now and then is actually healthy. It keeps us alert and motivated. But persistent, energy-draining stress is best avoided, especially if you have Parkinson’s.
The more stress factors you face, the more you’ll experience the physical effects of Parkinson’s: more intense tremors, slower movement, increased pain. That’s why it’s important to prevent or reduce stress wherever possible.
Make sure to take the advice of Faye Rhodes to heart. This former chair of the Massachusetts chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) has 11 anti-stress tips for you.
1. Identify the stress factors in your life
Some people thrive on adrenaline, while others are happiest spending a quiet evening at home. There are natural-born leaders, and just as many people who prefer to take on a supportive role. One person finds comfort in family, while another runs a mile when they need help or support. In short: everyone is different, and so are our stress triggers.
Try to identify what causes you stress and how you feel in those moments. Is it lack of sleep, confusion, frustration? Are you taking on too much responsibility, or do you have too many appointments and obligations? Pay attention to this, and take action!
2. Cut out the stress
As you put together a list of stress factors, you’ll probably notice that some can be eliminated right away. Start by removing the simplest ones from your list. If sleeplessness is triggered by tense, scary or emotional films, avoid them. If coffee leaves you overly jittery, switch to decaf, or cut it out altogether. Sometimes it really is that simple.
3. No one is indispensable
Take a closer look at the commitments and appointments you’ve taken on, both professionally and personally. We often tend to believe we’re indispensable. But ask yourself: will the world stop turning if you resign from your job, or if you’re not available as the classroom helper every week?
Reflect on whether your relationship gives you enough energy, and whether you’re spending your time on something you’re truly passionate about. Are your choices driven by your own desires, or by the expectations of others? These are important questions to gain clarity on.
4. Don’t hesitate to ask for help
When evaluating your situation or setting goals, it’s perfectly okay to seek support from a coach, a professional advisor, or a friend. Break tasks down into smaller steps, achieving a series of small wins can keep you motivated to keep going. Many people also find that meditation helps them manage stress more effectively.
5. Make time for leisure
Schedule downtime. Prioritise moments of recovery. What helps you unwind? Meeting up with friends, reading a book, going for a walk? Whatever it is, make it a priority. Relax and enjoy it.
6. Get moving and eat well
You can take it step by step. Start with a walk, there’s no need to spend hours at the gym. Eat more fruit and vegetables, and try to avoid caffeine as much as possible.
Set realistic goals when it comes to diet and exercise. You’ll have a much better chance of making real progress than those who start off too ambitiously.
7. No control? No worries!
It’s inevitablek, you can’t control everything, and sometimes all you can do is your very best. Keeping this in mind is especially helpful during stressful moments like job interviews, exams, presentations or performances.
8. Resolve conflicts whenever possible
Or avoid them altogether, because they drain far too much energy.
9. Sleep as much as you can
Admittedly, this isn’t always easy for people with Parkinson’s. But it is important. Try taking one or more naps during the day, a power nap can work wonders.
If sleeping through the night is difficult, there are tips available to help you manage sleep disturbances.
10. Try to see change as a positive challenge
Try to see life changes as challenges, opportunities to grow and support your personal development. You may not be able to control your circumstances or the behaviour of others, but you can control your own mindset. And that mindset often makes the difference between being content or frustrated, happy or unhappy. What feels better, for you and for those around you?
11. Seize the day
Appreciate each day and try to enjoy it as much as you can.
These tips are taken from the article ‘Limiting Stress’ by Faye Rhodes. The article was first published in the Spring 2007 issue of the Young Parkinson’s newsletter by the APDA.
