by Mary Parker Draper, Extension Agent – Smith County
Normal is not the same for everyone, just as stress is not the same for everyone. During this time everyone’s normal is very different than just a very few months ago. Doing everyday tasks may seem difficult to accomplish. This can become stressful for even the ones that did not stress about much before the pandemic.
According to Extension Specialist Dr. Kathryn Conrad, “Some internalize stress by withdrawing into themselves, wanting to be alone and distant in processing difficult feelings. Others externalize their stress by being easily upset or moody and may find it more difficult to get along with others.”
Adults and children all experience stress. How both react to the stress may be similar or a bit different. In adults stress may disrupt sleep, lose concentration, and turn to drugs and alcohol. Children may experience frequent outbursts, return to bedwetting or thumb sucking, and experience separation anxiety. There are more experiences that may be exhibited by both adults and children. It is very important for parents to take time for themselves so it will be easier to help children manage their stress.
Stress can lead to negative health effects, such as headaches, high blood pressure, depression, etc. One must practice self-care to manage stress. Ways to practice self-care is to find an outlet for the stress include exercising, meditation, having the same daily routines, and boundaries for social media. It is good to stay connected to family and friends during this time. However, it could lead to information overload.
This too shall pass. By using ways to manage your stress, you will come out of this healthier and stronger than before. For more information, please contact Mary Parker Draper at the extension office at 615-735-2900.
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Check out this week’s “Food for Thought” recipe for Strawberry Cobbler!
Strawberry Cobbler
Pastry of choice*
3 cups fresh berries, sliced
1 cup sugar
2 cups water
¼ cup flour
½ stick butter
red food coloring, optional
Line deep oven-proof dish with pastry. In heavy saucepan, combine flour and sugar. Add water and butter. Cook on medium heat until combined well and mixture starts to thicken. Add berries and cook a few minutes. Pour into pastry. Top with second pastry and seal edges. Slice ½ stick butter over top of pastry. Sprinkle with 4 tablespoons sugar. Bake until golden brown, around 35-40 minutes. *Can use refrigerated pastry.
