by Stephanie B Bucklin
Today, I encountered a familiar yet deeply frustrating experience that I know many of you can relate to: navigating a poorly functioning automated system. This ordeal consumed far more time and energy than it should have, simply because I couldn’t get through to a human being. The irony of these systems, designed to save time and streamline processes, is that they often do just the opposite.
As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), this experience was particularly stressful. Each failed attempt to get through to the MTM automated system only heightened my frustration. Today’s issue began with a missed ride that arrived 10 minutes after my scheduled physical therapy appointment. Thankfully, the PT office wasn’t busy, and they graciously allowed me to be 20 minutes late—a moment of human compassion that I deeply appreciated.
Later, I finally managed to speak with someone at AHCCCS… or so I thought. After explaining my grievance in detail, the representative apologized and informed me that she couldn’t take my complaint. Yet, she softened her approach, provided clear directions to the correct department, and offered reassurance about the flawed system. Another point for human compassion.
Stress and Its Physical Toll
During my PT appointment, I discussed my frustration with my physical therapist. From my studies in Stress Management, I’ve learned that the cascade of cortisol and adrenaline hormones released during stressful experiences can have profound effects on the body. For me, the connection between chronic pain and chronic stress has become painfully clear. Stress exacerbates pain, and pain perpetuates stress—a vicious cycle I’ve been caught in for far too long.
After the appointment, I felt sore, tired, and emotionally drained. Once again, I attempted to navigate the MTM Automated System to arrange a ride home. This time, I was completely unsuccessful. Defeated, I surrendered and walked to the nearest bus stop. While on the bus, I calculated the best stop to minimize my walking distance home. There isn’t a bus stop near my street, so I braced myself for an additional quarter-mile walk. However, the bus driver, noticing my struggle, kindly stopped at my street. Another moment of human compassion.
Chronic Stress and the Journey to Healing
Life has been challenging for over six years. During this time, I’ve gained weight, lost my yoga practice, and visited over 50 doctors in search of a diagnosis for my chronic pain. Weekly psychotherapy sessions help me manage my anxiety, and I use cannabis to cope with the relentless stress. Recently, I read The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk, which highlights the profound connection between cortisol levels and pain. Essentially, stress amplifies pain, and chronic pain fuels stress.
“In order to change, people need to become aware of their sensations and the way that their bodies interact with the world around them. Physical self-awareness is the first step in releasing the tyranny of the past [trauma].”
― Bessel A. van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
This understanding has inspired me to take control of my life. Today, at my PT appointment, I spoke a powerful intention aloud: “I will no longer let pain define me!” The entire office celebrated this realization with me. It marked a turning point in my journey of transformation.
Finding Mastery Amidst Chaos
It was my own struggles with stress that led me to study Stress Mastery for over 15 years. This research culminated in the publication of my most recent book, Thriving Under Pressure: Stress Mastery for the Modern Age.
Navigating today’s challenges reminded me of the importance of resilience and the profound impact of human compassion. While technology has its flaws, the kindness of people—from the PT office staff to the bus driver—restored my faith and reinforced my commitment to healing.
Have you experienced similar frustrations with automated systems? Or found moments of human compassion that lifted your spirits? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below. Let’s navigate this journey together, one step at a time.
Namaste,
~S
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