Pressure

This blog discusses the concept of pressure and how it builds up within us during times of change or difficulty. We can use the metaphor of a boiling pot of water to describe the process, starting from simmering emotions to a full boil where emotions become intense and visible. Let's learn together how to manage the pressure before it boils over.

Mark Hampton

3/11/20242 min read

Pressure

By Mark Hampton | Director & Founder

Pressure builds slowly, and if not managed properly, it can burst through, appearing in a lot

of different ways.

Life can create unforeseen pressures. What are your coping skills? Do you have a plan or coping strategies for handling pressure before it boils over? A couple of my “go-tos” are journaling, working out, meditation, prayer, and talking with my support group, just to name a few. All of the above are very critical to me and help relieve the pressure that builds at times within. It does not mean that the pressure is gone, but the temperature has been turned down temporarily. I may have to repeat using those strategies many times before the pressure has truly passed.

It is very important that we have some strategies regarding the pressures of life and how to navigate them. My hope is that this insight helps one person navigate those life difficulties and find some peace.

I hope this finds you doing well and/or on the path to change. During these different stages of change, a large amount of pressure can build up within us. It’s similar to a boiling pot of water with a lid on it. Initially, the water just seems to simmer; small bubbles float up from the bottom (early emotions)—nothing major. Then, more bubbles pop (more emotions) up from the bottom of the pan. The water temperature increases, bubbles become more rapid and bigger, and steam builds (emotions become more rapid, more intense). Finally, the bubbles and pot are in full boil mode (emotions are really intense), steam is leaking out of the lid (emotions are fully visible), and the pan is really hot (temper flares), to the point of the lid coming off (blowing our top).

Pressure leaks out like steam from a pan. Pressure appears for us as tears, fear, anxiety, depression, worry, isolation, addiction, mental health struggles, words, snap decisions, being short with others, our children, and our loved ones, etc. How do you manage the pressure—job, relationships, finances, family, and temptations regarding addiction?

Phone

(253) 735-0665

817 Harvey Road NE, WA 98002

Address

© 2024 AAHAA Supportive Housing. All rights reserved.