Everyday we are exposed to a myriad number of events which have the potential of causing stress which can have positive or negative consequences. In a positive sense, stress can propel us into action and give us new perspectives around different issues and help us to maintain focus. In a negative sense, there is no denying that stress is considered one of the major causes of health problems and, in extreme cases, death. In addition, not all people will respond to the same stressful situation in the same way. What is important is identifying the different ways in which people interpret and react to events that leaves them feeling stressed.
Identifying the signs of stress can assist in dealing with situations in a more satisfying and relaxed way. In general, stress will be experienced through feelings, thoughts, behaviour and physical symptoms which may include:
- increased heart rate
- friends’ frequent comments to “slow down” or “chill out”
- consistent insomnia
- shallow breathing
- flushed face
- hands shaking
- irritability
- stiff neck
- extremely cold or warm hands
- poor appetite, lack of sleep
lack of concentration
- inability to stop thinking about something
- feelings of helplessness
- frequent careless mistakes on the job
- excess weight gain or loss
- ANY thoughts of suicide
Stress management assists in becoming aware of stressors and reactions, recognizing what can be changed, reducing the intensity of stress reactions and building and maintaining physical and emotional reserves.
