Stress Management

We all have stress in our lives, some just deal with it better than others. No one is exempt from stress and the effects of stress.

You can not predict stress and the degree of stress in your life is highly dependent upon individual factors such as your physical health, the quality of your interpersonal relationships, the number of commitments and responsibilities you carry, others expectations of you and who depends on you, and the number of changes or traumatic events that have occurred in your life.

To increase your ability to handle stress, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat properly, get plenty of rest and have an adequate social support network. People who maintain this type of lifestyle report less stress overall and have improved mental health in comparison to those without social contacts.

If you fail to manage your excessive stress, excessive stress can induce headaches, sleep disturbances, feelings of anxiety or tension, anger or concentration problems. Scientific studies have shown that psychological stress may worsen the symptoms of almost every known medical condition. Long term stress can also have effects on your immune system. Some studies show that chronic (long-term) stress has the effect of “wearing down” the immune system leading to an increased susceptibility to colds and other infections.

By increasing your exercise and using relaxation or meditation techniques you can begin to control the stress in your life and begin to lower the effects that manifest themselves when stress is out of control in your life. Physical exercise promotes overall fitness but also can help by actually getting you away from what ever is stressing you. Go out for a walk or a jog when things seem to be overwhelming.

Some meditation and relaxation need to be learned in a class setting but there are some that you can learn on your own to help reduce your stress. There are literally hundreds of different types of relaxation methods available on either CD format or books ranging from simple fitness to martial arts. Some of these include biofeedback, imagery, TM or other wise known as transcendental meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, Tai Chi and Yoga.

Other stress management techniques include:

• Time management practices - Learning to prioritize tasks and avoid over-commitment. This can be as simple as always using a calendar or planner and checking it faithfully before committing to anything..
• Organizing your surrounding – A cluttered desk can effect your efficiency. Also organize other places such as kitchen, closets, car. You won’t be faced with the stress of misplaced items. Make it a habit to periodically clean and straighten the messes that accumulate over time.
• Get involved with a support group - Or make sure you have a good group of social friends that you can chat with and honestly share your feeling with.
• Get help from your doctor – If you feel you cannot control your stress or you begin to have physical symptom, consult your physician. Your physician may suggest medication or professional counseling to assist with your stress management.
• Go to your local college and take a course in relaxation – many community colleges offer single courses in relaxation techniques. Also some Community centers offer classes periodically. Call your county’s local mental health department and ask where any courses might be taking place.