Stress – Overview

What happens when you’re stressed?

Stress occurs when you are confronted with more problems than you’re used to. The body reacts to stress as well as to the danger. It produces hormones that accelerate the heartbeat, increase the breathing and give you a burst of energy. This condition is called stress response.

Sometimes stress is a normal phenomenon and may even be beneficial. It can help you, if you need to work hard and to react fast to everything. For example, it can help you win in competitions or to perform an important job on time.

However, if stress happens too often or lasts too long, it can have bad consequences. It can cause headaches, indigestion, and deprived sleep. Also, it can weaken your immune system, and as a consequence, it will be harder to fight diseases. If you are already sick of something, stress can worsen your condition. It can lead to frequent changes in mood, stress and depression. Also, it can be bad for your relationships, work or study.

How to deal with stress?

The good news is that stress can be beaten. To do this, you must:

1. Determine the cause of stress.
2. Find ways to avoid stressful situations.
3. Learn healthy methods of dealing with stress.

How to determine your level of stress?

Sometimes the cause of stress is easily determined. Usually it occurs as a result of life changes, as the death of a loved one, marriage, and birth of a child. But sometimes it is not clear what causes this condition.

You can keep a diary of stress. Keep a notebook and write down what things cause your stress. Then write down how you react to them and what you do to get rid of stress. Doing this diary helps you in determining the cause and stress level. You can then take appropriate measures to cope with stress.

How to Overcome Stress?

Stress – it’s part of life for most people. You may not always be able to get rid of stress, but you can reduce its impact.

Try using the following ideas:

• Plan your time wisely. Making a plan, you’ll do more, while expending less effort.
• Find a way to cope with your problems. Remember how you used to fight stress. Honestly think what really helps you, and what does not. Think about other ways that may prove useful.
• Take care of yourself. Rest long enough. Eat well. Do not smoke. Limit the amount of alcohol consumed.
• Try to change your thinking. When you start worrying, stop for a moment and don’t do it. Try not to think about things that you can change. Learn to say “no.”
• Do not be afraid to ask for help. For people who have good relationships within the family and friends is easier to tolerate stress.

Sometimes the stress is too serious to deal with it alone. In this case, it is desirable to talk with a friend, family member or even consult a doctor.

How can I relieve stress?

You’ll feel better if you find a way to remove stress from your life. Each person can help in different ways. Try the following recommendations:

• Make exercises. Regular exercise – this is one of the best ways to overcome stress. You can start with walking.
• Write. Write down the things that annoy you. This may help.
• Give vent to your feelings. Speak, cry, laugh, and express your anger, when necessary.
• Do something that gives you pleasure. Hobbies can help you to relax. You can also try to help others or to volunteer.
• Find ways to relax your body. They may include breathing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, massage, aromatherapy, yoga and relaxation exercises such as tai chi or qigong.
• Focus on the present. Try meditation, exercise the imagination, and self-hypnosis. Listen to relaxing music. Try to bring humor into your life. Laughter may indeed be the best medicine.