On March 29th The American Psychological Association will sponsor a Mind/Body health fair at Perimeter Mall in Atlanta. This is an effort to show the public what psychology is and how it can help with the stresses and strains of everyday life. There will be numerous presentations throughout the day with a wide range of useful topics. Some of the areas we will cover are using exercise to manage stress and how to make it fun and motivating; cooking healthy foods and healthy eating patterns; managing stress with meditation and attitudes, and working with different kinds of stress ( relationship, financial,etc.). Many people do not understand what a broad range of research and training the field of psychology encompasses but it has to do with understanding all aspects of human behavior. Currently most psychologists are experts in learning how to manage behaviors, thoughts and emotions through a wide range of techniques.
Stress is particularly hard on the human body and over time will takes its toll on a person's health. Physical illness, drug and alcohol use, and a general feeling of fatigue and exhaustion are often related to excess secretions of stress hormones in the body. Effective stress management can come about through many paths: meditation, breathing, relaxation, visualization, recreation, exercise, assertiveness,venting and more effective interpersonal relationships are all useful tools to employ at stressful times. Consulting with an experienced psychologist and getting support and feedback about what the most effective methods are for your particular stress is alos a helpful option. Please come to the fair and take advantage of this program that is free to the public.