Non-drug alternatives to tranquilizers
Advertising tends to persuade us that there's a pill or syrup for every ailment that's guaranteed to deliver relief; it also tends to make us think that this product is the best solution for us! The efficacy of these drugs may be real, but do we have to resort to them at the slightest symptom, all the more so given the many undesirable effects? Wouldn't it be a good idea to try other solutions first, even if it means turning to drugs if they prove ineffective (and taking all the usual precautions: medical advice, dosage, etc.)?
Against pain
Don't rush to take pills for minor aches and pains. For a mild headache, for example, try little "tricks" (cold water compresses on the head, finger pressure on the painful artery, massage, relaxation, etc.), but don't let yourself be overcome by an incapacitating migraine! A migraine is caused by a dilation of the vessels in the skull (temple and forehead area), which stimulates the nerve fibers responsible for pain, giving rise to the sensation of a headache. Migraine sufferers can usually "feel" the onset of an attack, and are familiar with the treatment that will relieve it, as well as its dosage and side-effects; they can therefore take this into account when planning their working day. Migraines can occasionally affect any one of us, and can be extremely painful, but that's no reason to "borrow" the drugs that relieve someone else's symptoms, without knowing what effects they may have on us personally!
To combat the "pill reflex", first ask yourself about the reasons for your pain: do you see the migraine attack coming that you know so well (and, if so, you certainly know the treatment and its effects), or is it a headache (or backache) linked to the particular circumstances of the session? The same questions should be asked in cases of stress.
Countering stress-related tension
Anxiety, stress and insomnia can be treated with more than just a few anti-anxiety pills. You can learn to understand and manage stress! There are some really effective techniques that you need to learn, but stress management training is a real start-up that will arm you for the long haul!
More occasional actions can also help, and here it's up to each individual to find his or her own tricks: a nap, a hot shower or bath, a walk in the woods, a bit of sculpting or painting, writing, singing, dancing, DIY, gardening, cooking, humor, laughter, prayer, visits to friends, tender tête-à-tête, sexuality..
| Stress and prolonged sitting at your desk can lead to muscular tension and aches and pains, which can be alleviated by relaxing physically (with a few exercises in relaxation, dance or gymnastics) and mentally ("clearing the mind" by taking a pleasant break). The physical well-being resulting from these breaks will undoubtedly have a positive impact on your state of stress. The notion of pleasure is essential to our equilibrium, so make sure you don't suppress it, even during the session! Think about the times of the week, the times of the day, when you could give it back the place it deserves and enjoy it to the full, even in small doses |  |
To combat everyday ailments
A neglected diet can also lead to a whole series of more or less painful physiological disorders which can also contribute to maintaining a state of stress, but which can be quickly eliminated if you put things right!
In these periods of intense work, don't you have a tendency to overindulge in cigarettes, cola, sweets or, more simply, to eat by convenience or pick at your food like a bird?
Confinement in a poorly ventilated room (especially if you smoke) is also harmful.
Finally, water is an essential nutrient for the body and brain cells, so don't deprive them of their ration. In short, make sure you maintain a healthy lifestyle ... and a good night's sleep!
