Ever been really stressed and then had some of that stress removed, only to feel like everything falls apart? It’s Rachael on the blog this week, and my topic is Stress Compression Syndrome. I am really excited to talk about this because this is my term that I’ve come up with to describe what happens when we remove a bunch of stress. First I’ll break it down, and then I’ll give you some tips on how to manage it.
Watch the video or read on to learn more!
What is Stress Compression Syndrome?
As I mentioned, I came up with this term to describe the impact of removing stress, and it really came from in the medical world and physical injuries. There are medical conditions known as compartment syndrome and crush syndrome. I think stress can act in a similar way to these.
What is medical crush syndrome? Let’s say a building falls on your leg. You can actually be relatively okay until they remove that building. It’s not great to be in that situation, but you might be stable. However, once they remove that building, your body can be flooded with a bunch of chemicals and they have to be able to stop the impact of those to help save you, and it can be really life-threatening. You actually get worse, even though the building is removed. And so stress compression syndrome is my mental health version of this.
It happens when we have a lot of really big stressors on us, or just even a lot of little ones. We might have a lot of stress, but we’re doing okay. We’re not doing great, but we’re doing okay. We’re regulating our emotions for the most part and we’re not breaking down too much.
Then someone removes one of those stressors, or a project comes to completion, or you finish all of your final exams and then everything starts falling apart. This is the stress compression syndrome. You remove the stressor, everything starts to fall apart.
I find that when I’m in this kind of stress compression syndrome, I almost feel a little bit lost. I don’t know which way is up, and I definitely have a lot more trouble regulating emotions. Little things are going to set me off easier. I’m going to be more forgetful.
Why is this happening? The stress is gone. Shouldn’t that be a good thing?
Well, not really, because when we’re stressed our body is pumping out so many chemicals to just keep us going and keep us in that fight or flight state. And then, suddenly, we don’t need all to be in the fight or flight state anymore. Everything drops way down, and it takes a while before we get back to homeostasis and balance things out.
Tips to Manage Stress Compression Syndrome
So what do we do about this? How do we avoid it?
First, really taking care of ourselves in the stressful period is the first step. This means making sure we are reaching out to our supports, doing our self-care, saying no when there’s too much going on and not taking on more stress.
And then once the stresses are done and you find yourself in stress compression syndrome, it’s about self-care again, compassion and just giving yourself some grace, and understanding. Think to yourself, I just dealt with a lot of stuff and I just need a minute, I need a minute to breathe and that’s okay. Too often we never give ourselves the chance to breathe and take a break.
And we need to, especially when you’re recovering from all the energy that went into being in that stressful state for so long.
There you have it! Stress compression syndrome is what happens when we remove the stress and everything gets a little weird, a little wonky, and it feels like everything’s falling apart. So if you are dealing with a lot of stress right now and you need some support—or you’re dealing with stress compression syndrome (the aftermath of that stress) reach out to us and we will definitely be happy to help. You can reach out to us here at 780 446 0300 or drop us a line at info@dochaspsych.com.
So take care, everyone! I hope you’re doing okay with all the stresses that come with the end of the year. Till next time!
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
