SOURCE: Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D. Dr. Yvonne Thomas, a psychologist in Los Angeles who treats clients throughout all of California, has observed an increase in people’s stress levels currently.
Dr. Thomas believes this could be due to factors such as leaving summer behind, incorporating school back into one’s life and schedule, the changing of the seasons with less daylight, current events, juggling multiple responsibilities, and/or the whirlwind of holidays approaching.
She has several recommendations for how those affected by daily stressors can feel better.
The first step Dr. Thomas recommends for dealing with these stressors involves being aware of them. Identifying what is specifically triggering a person to not feel good, along with what they’re feeling and why, can help someone know what is happening to them and then more productively deal with it, according to the doctor.
Her second recommendation is to make sure that when a person is feeling stressed or upset, they get enough sunlight. In autumn, as the days shorten and the sun is out less, even in California, a person can easily miss the vitamin D that the sun provides. As a result, this can cause or contribute to people experiencing feelings such as anxiety, depression, and/or sadness. Even a short time in the sun (with sunscreen) can help people feel less prone to negative feelings.
Exercise is also crucial, according to the doctor, as a way to lessen stress and unhappy emotions. “While exercise is not a magic pill,” Dr. Thomas said, “it can cut the edge off of the upsetting feelings. Exercise is a healthy way to let loose and discharge those negative emotions. This can help de-escalate them and improve your health as well as how you’re feeling.”
Dr. Thomas also maintains the importance of having a support system. Those who are upset or dealing with stress can be served well by talking to their family, friends, loved ones, and so forth. Confiding in someone a person trusts about what they are feeling can help in many ways, not the least of which is letting a stressed or upset person know they are not alone.
In addition, Dr. Thomas stated, “There is nothing wrong or embarrassing about admitting that you’re stressed out or don’t feel good and that you could use some assistance and healthier coping mechanisms. I’ve helped many people through the years live a happier life with less stress and more joy because of the therapeutic work we have done together.”
Dr. Thomas offers individual, family, and couples therapy. For more than 25 years, she has worked to heal the mind, body, and spirit of her clients while increasing their quality of life.
For more information about ways to reduce stress, or working with an anxiety therapist, or to make a press inquiry, contact Dr. Yvonne Thomas at (310) 359-9450.
Contact Information
Dr. Yvonne Thomas Licensed Psychologist
(310) 359-9450