We all have problems and stresses in our lives. Stress isn’t always negative. It can be a great motivator to make a change or get that task done on time. However, dealing with our inner private thoughts can have a negative impact on our lives depending on how we cope with these thoughts – these silent struggles. If we are allowing these worries to intrude on our happiness and quality of life then this requires a different approach.
By bottling up anxieties/feelings they can feel doubled in intensity. You may find yourself feeling isolated, thinking unhelpful thoughts such as ‘no one will understand’, ‘no one can help me’, ‘I don’t have a choice’ and so on.
There may be a fear of judgement attached to this train of thought and we can perceive ourselves as a failure if we admit to feeling out of our depth. When we have these silent struggles our physical and mental health can suffer.
Physical health effects may include:
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Asthma may be worsened
- High Blood Pressure
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Psychological effects may include:
- Depression
- Isolation
- Lack of self esteem
- Lowered concentration
- No motivation
These worries may lead us to using food and/or alcohol to handle the emotions being felt. By doing so we are creating a reliance on food/alcohol to help us through tough times. Eating is a temporary distraction from the matter at hand and in the long term can cause more anxiety as weight gain continues.
To avoid using unhealthy ways to cope it’s important to share your worries with someone who you trust. It can be frightening and uncomfortable but you will feel a huge weight lifted from your shoulders.
These silent struggles / burdens are not to be carried alone.
Don’t be ashamed of your story, it will inspire others.
This blog post on silent struggles ties in nicely with Robbie O’Neill’s podcast on Getting To Grips With Men’s Health.
