Local counselor: Navigating stress and building community resilience in Jacksonville
As April dawns in Jacksonville, the city comes alive with vibrant colors of spring. Yet, beneath the surface, there lies an unmistakable tension — a silent struggle that many in our community face each day. April is National Stress Awareness Month, and it's time we shed light on the stressors that impact our community.
In Jacksonville, the faces of stress are diverse and numerous. It's in the weary gaze of parents working tirelessly to provide, the nervous pulse of students balancing studies with part-time jobs and the worn-out spirits of health care professionals who give their all, every day. Stress is a shadow that follows us, subtly woven into our daily existence.
The fast pace of life today, amplified by relentless technological advancements and instant access to news from across the world, can contribute to everyday stress. Recent research from Thriveworks found that the increased cost of living (58%), war and conflict (46%) and an increase in crime (43%) all have an impact on Americans' stress and anxiety levels.
Receiving national and worldwide news can also be overwhelming, like the recent bridge collapse in Baltimore, updates about elections and conflicts happening worldwide.
Stress doesn't just affect individuals, it ripples through our mental health services, increasing demand and highlighting the gaps in our system. Barriers like stigma, limited access and high costs often stand between our community members and the support they need.
To combat these challenges, we must take a three-pronged approach:
Increasing access
It is not uncommon for people to make an appointment to see a mental health professional to find out there is a waitlist, and the next appointment may not be available for weeks or even months. Florida’s recently signed “Live Healthy” legislation package is a step in the right direction by focusing on growing the health care workforce, increasing access and incentivizing innovation.
Community action
A united community is a resilient one. By joining forces — through local organizations, faith groups or neighborhood alliances — we can offer support groups, mental health education and stress-relieving activities that strengthen our communal bonds.
Individual habits
Personal well-being starts with self-care. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, balanced nutrition and nurturing social ties are pillars of stress management. Knowledge is power; by educating ourselves on how to manage stress and where to find help, we take control of our mental health.
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As we traverse the complex maze of stress that impacts our community, let's remember no one carries their burden alone. Our collective strength lies in our shared humanity. By raising our voices, pushing for change and reaching out to those around us, we can envision a Jacksonville where stress is not just recognized but actively managed.
Resources must be accessible and well-being should be at the forefront of our priorities. Together, let's turn the page to a new chapter for Jacksonville — one filled with hope, healing and a collective spirit of humanity.
Lisa Maddox of Thriveworks Jacksonville is a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in stress, relationships and coping skills.
This guest column is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily represent the views of the Times-Union. We welcome a diversity of opinions.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Self-care, more access, community bonds help Jacksonville beat stress
