Stress

Stress is something that affects us all in varying degrees.

Todays fast paced lifestlye is taking effect and a recent study showed around 90% of all doctors visits are for stress related problems.

Stress can be the cause of many other ailments such as insomnia, fatigue, depression, as well as increasing the risk of more serious problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Stress also has an effect on the immune system and makes us more susceptible to sickness and infections.

It is clear that we need to learn how to manage stress to avoid further problems.

Early warning signs include:

Menstrual problems
Speech difficulties
More impatient
Headaches
Ulcers
Need more sleep
Tired but can't sleep
Sudden weight loss
Sudden weight gain
Repeated colds
Muscle aches
Hair loss
Chest pain
Forgetfulness
Nervous talking
Lower back pain
Loss of appetite
Increased appetite
Excessive fatigue
Withdraw from social life

There are three things that you can change in your life to help control any stress. These are your thinking, your behaviour and your lifestyle.

Change your thinking ..

to being more positive by focusing on your strengths and the positive things in your life. Look for the positive in each situation, think of the glass as being half full instead of half empty.

There are two types of situations in life, one where we can do something to change the outcome and the other where we have no control over the outcome.

In the first situation, don't sit and worry about it DO something about it.

In the second situation, sitting and worrying
will not make any difference to the outcome.
You have no control over it ,
so don't worry about it,
let the situation resolve itself.

Change your behaviour ..

by learning to be more assertive and not let others put on you so much, allowing you more time to do what you want. Organize your time more, make 'to do' lists and prioritise, learn to delegate tasks to others and to say 'no' when appropriate. They say a problem shared is a problem halved so learn to share your problems and concerns with others more and then you are lightening the burden on yourself. Remember the saying 'laughter is the best medicine' as it really is true.

Change your lifestyle ..

by introducing diet, exercise, relaxation and sleep - the perfect recipe for a less stressful life.

A well balanced, healthy diet is vital in the fight against stress as it provides us with energy and boosts our immune system. Exercise is a great stress buster as it releases endorphins into the body which help lift your mood. Exercise is also a great outlet for getting rid of tensions, anger and frustration.

A good night's sleep is the basis of a healthy life. It provides our body and mind with the rest that they need and it restores and refreshes them for the day ahead. If you don't sleep well then you don't function as well the next day.

Relaxation is also a vital part of our requirements and alternative therapies such as massage, meditation and aromatherapy, together with long walks, taking up a hobby or having a relaxing bath, can help us to rid our bodies of tension and stress.

For more help with managing stress visit Your Complete Guide to Stress Management