Stress Management
Stress is the "wear and tear" our bodies experience as we adjust to our continually changing environment. It has physical and emotional effects on us and can create positive or negative feelings. As a positive influence, stress can help compel us to action; it can result in a new awareness and an exciting new perspective. As a negative influence, it can result in feelings of distrust, rejection, anger, and depression.
Stress can lead to health problems such as headaches, upset stomach, rashes, insomnia, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. With the death of a loved one, the birth of a child, a job promotion, or a new relationship, we experience stress as we readjust our lives. In so adjusting to different circumstances, stress will help or hinder us depending on how we react to it.
Insufficient stress acts as a depressant and may leave us feeling bored or dejected. Excessive stress may leave us feeling tired, angry or depressed. We need to find the optimal level of stress which will individually motivate but not overwhelm each of us.
Causes of Stress
- Marriage
- Pregnancy
- New job
- New life style
- Divorce
- Death of a loved one
- Being made redundant from your job
- Financial problems
- Noise
Symptoms of Stress
There are several signs and symptoms that you may notice when you are
experiencing stress, including:
- Feeling moody
- Inability to concentrate
- Crying for no apparent reason
- Laughing in a high pitch and nervous tone of voice
- Grinding your teeth
- Increasing smoking
- Increasing use of drugs and alcohol
- Losing your appetite or overeating
- Perspiration /sweaty hands
- Increased heart beat
- Dryness of throat and mouth
- Diarrhea, indigestion, vomiting
- Butterflies in stomach
- Headaches
- Pain in the neck and or lower back
- Loss of appetite or overeating
How Can I Manage Stress Better?
- Become aware of your own reactions to stress
- Focus on your good qualities and accomplishments
- Try to temper your excess emotions. Put the situation in perspective. Do not labor on the negative aspects and the "what if's"
- Slow, deep breathing
- Relaxation techniques can reduce muscle tension
- Exercise for cardiovascular fitness three to four times a week, moderate,
prolonged rhythmic exercise is best, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or
jogging - Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals
- Maintain your ideal weight
- Avoid nicotine, excessive caffeine, and other stimulants
- Take breaks and get away when you can
- Get plenty of sleep and be as consistent with your sleep schedule as possible
- Relax and have fun