Stress Management

During times of stress, it may seem impossible to control the anxiety and frustration that keeps building day after day. Stress can come from a wide variety of places: work, school, family, friends and romantic relationships. Some of the most common causes of stress include money, illness and divorce.

While we may not be able to avoid all of the sources of stress, there are steps we can take to manage the stress in our lives.

What Is Stress?

Stress is how you respond physiologically or psychologically to any kind of demand. In certain instances, some stress can actually be a positive force. It helps motivate people to solve problems, take action or perform to their best ability. However, other kinds of stress can wreak havoc on our lives and ultimately lead to long-term health consequences. To avoid these consequences, it's important to get a handle on your stress condition as soon as possible. On approach is to enroll in a self-help program. The Midwest Center offers it's Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program to assist the public in dealing with their stress.

During stressful events, our bodies release chemicals into the bloodstream that then trigger what is known as the 'fight-or-flight' response. Essentially, we prepare to either tackle the source of stress head on or avoid it altogether. In order to manage stress effectively, it is essential to first recognize its many signs.

What Are the Symptoms of Stress?

The impact that stress has on any individual person can vary dramatically, since people are affected in unique ways. Despite this, there are some common symptoms that are often attributed to excessive stress.

• Fatigue and Exhaustion
• Headaches
• Weakened Immunity
• Decreased Sex Drive
• Anxiety
• Difficulty Sleeping
• Anger and Frustration

Not everyone experiencing stress will feel all of these symptoms. For example, you may feel no change in energy levels, but might suddenly find yourself coming down with the cold or flu far more often than normal. While some of these short-term symptoms can be dealt with, the long term consequences can be serious illness, including heart conditions and high blood pressure. Effective stress management strategies are a great way to combat stress and find new ways to cope with anxiety.

What Are Some Effective Stress Management Techniques?

A large part of reducing stress involves finding new ways to both limit and manage the stress in your life. Relaxation strategies, communication techniques and exercise are just a few of the different types of stress management techniques that experts recommend. Yoga, deep breathing, massages, jogging and talking to a friend can all be great ways to deal with stress you are experiencing.

It is always a good idea to tune in to your own body and find out what strategies work best for you. For some people, this might involve reading a good book, watching a movie, spending time with family or cooking a great Italian meal at home. Consider some of the things you enjoy, and then think about whether these activities would work as part of your stress management plan.