When we are stressed, our blood goes to our body and leaves our frontal lobe area.

The frontal lobe is responsible for functions like self-control, emotions and thinking,according to the Cleveland Clinic.

We also have these cranial nerves that start in the brainstem, Donnelly said.

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Theyre associated with communication and connection, and those get compromised when were in a stress response.

Donnelly came up with the concept of stress languages while working with her own clients.

She found that stress management was the key missing element in their treatment.

Woman in casual attire rests chin on hands, looking contemplatively out a window from a cozy indoor setting

Which one are you?

Its really about catching yourself and your partner in these repetitive approaches to stress.

Keep in mind that you may fall into multiple categories of stress language.

Woman sitting on couch, hand on forehead, looking stressed or with a headache

Understanding stress languages brings more understanding in your relationships, Donnelly said.

Hansen likened understanding your stress language to being sick and not knowing whats wrong.

Those terms can sound like labels, and my purpose is not to give people labels, Donnelly said.

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Plus, it can be a good way to change problematic behaviors.

Its impossible to change a behavior if you dont realize youre doing it.

Other Ways To Handle Stress

Stress can wreak havoc on your mental health and physical health alike.

Man in a casual shirt sitting at a desk with a laptop, covering face with hands, showing signs of stress or fatigue

Cumulative stress is probably the most causal to the development of anxiety and depressive disorders, Hansen said.

Plus,chronic stresscan lead to major issues like heart disease and high blood pressure.

This means focusing on your physical body instead of your mind.

If youre withdrawing, those are all hardcore symptoms of either a depressive or an anxiety disorder.

If this sounds familiar, its a good idea to seek out professional help, if possible.

you’re able to use databases likePsychology TodayandInclusive Therapiststo find a mental health provider near you.