Stress is a normal part of life. Having to fulfill many roles in life can create stress both at work and at home. If not recognized and dealt with, stress can affect your physical and emotional health. You may not be able to eliminate the sources of stress, but you can reduce and manage it so you can function at your best for yourself and others.
SOME CAUSES OF STRESS:
- Unemployment
- Difficult work schedule
- Financial problems
- Balancing family and work
- Life changes
- Relationship challenges
- Sickness/death of friends/family
- Traumatic events
EFFECTS OF STRESS
- Irritability
- Impatience
- Forgetfulness
- Lack of concentration
SIGNS OF STRESS
- Headaches/migraines
- Back pain
- Frequent sickness
- Unusual weight gain/loss
- Frequent indigestion
- Moodiness
- Feelings of Depression and/or anxiety
- Fatigue
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
UNHEALTHY WAYS OF COPING WITH STRESS
- Using drugs
- Drinking too much
- Smoking
- Overeating/undereating
- Taking out your stress on others
- Watching TV for hours
- Isolating from your family and friends
MANAGING STRESS
- Exercise can burn off the chemicals that were built up in your body during stressful times.
- Avoid caffeine, drugs and alcohol.
- Eat healthy foods. Eat less sugar and fatty foods, avoid processed foods, eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods.
- Get adequate sleep. Majority of adults need an average of six to eight hours of sleep per day.
- Engage in hobbies that you enjoy.
- Seek support from loved-ones.
- Take anxiety management classes and/or psychotherapy sessions through your mental health center or hospital.
Remember again, pay attention your body when it shows signs of stress. Slow down, make time to take care of yourself, and get some rest.