Stress Management : What is Stress.

Stress Management : What is Stress.

What is Stress?

Anything that challenges or threatens our well being can be defined as stress. It is important to note that stress can be GOOD AND BAD.

Good stress keeps us going  and Negative stress undermines our mental and physical health.

Causes of Stress :-  Stress can be caused by Internal and external Factors.

INTERNAL CAUSES.

1. Constant Worry
2. Rigid Thinking
3. Unrealistic Expectations
4. Pessimism
5. Negative self talk
6. All in or all out attitude.

External Causes.

1. Major life changes
2. Difficulties with relationships
3. Having too much to do
4. Difficulties at work or in school
5. Financial difficulties
6. Worrying about ones children and or family

Symptoms of Stress

• Cognitive Symptoms.

1. Memory Problems
2. Concentration Issues
3. Lack of Judgement
4. Pessimism
5. Anxiety
6. Constant Worrying

• Emotional Symptoms

1. Depression
2. Agitation
3. Irritability
4. Loneliness
5. Anxiety
6. Anger

• Physical Symptoms

1. Aches and Pain
2. Diarrhea or Constipation
3. Nausea
4. Dizziness
5. Chest pain and or Rapid heartbeat
6. Frequent cold or flu like feelings

• Behavioral Symptoms

1. Increase or decrease in appetite
2. Over sleeping or not sleeping enough
3. Withdrawing Socially
4. Ignoring Responsibilities
5. Consumption of alcohol or Cigarettes
6. Nervous habits like nail biting,pacing etc.

TIPS TO MANAGE STRESS.

1. Note down the different ways in which you can handle the various sources of your stress.
2. Remember that you cannot control everything,but you can control how you respond.
3. Discuss your  feelings, opinions and beliefs rather than reacting angrily, defensively  or passively.
4. Practice relaxation techniques like mediation yoga when you start feeling stressed.
5. Devote a part of your day towards exercise.
6. Eat healthy food like fruits and vegetables. Avoid unhealthy food and especially those containing large amount of sugar.
7.  Plan your day so that you can manage your time better, with less stress.
8. Say No to people and think when required.
9. Schedule time to peruse your hobbies and interests. 
10. Ensure you get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep.
11. Reduce your caffeine intake.
12. Increase the time spent with family and friends.

Thank You

 KEEP SMILING AND BE HAPPY.