Left unchecked, stress can affect our mental health, and play a role in substance use and misuse.
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By Melissa Brunner
Published: Apr. 16, 2025 at 5:49 PM EDT
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – We all get stressed out from time to time.
Left unchecked, it can affect our mental health, and it can play a role in substance use and misuse.
April is National Stress Awareness Month. It’s an issue that SENT Topeka is tackling through its Kansas Fights Addiction campaign.
Addiction specialist Tricia McCourt visited Eye on NE Kansas to share some advice.
McCourt says chronic stress actually can rewire our brains. It can make us more susceptible to addiction as we self-medicate with substances to escape stress and anxiety, as it also works to increase cravings for substances.
You can find healthy ways to cope with stress. McCourt suggests engaging in physical activity; building a support network of family and friends; prioritizing self-care and healthy sleep habits; and, if necessary, seek professional support.
SENT is hosting a Mocktail Mingle from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 25 at the Avondale East building. It’s a fun and sober time to support friends and loved ones in recovery. RSVP to 785-783-2535 x301.
Find mental health support from SENT at SENTTopeka.com.
Find additional health resources at wibw.com/HearMeSeeMe.
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