The definition of stress is "disruption"- disruption of expectations, emotions, and general well-being. The effects of prolonged stress are a depleted immune system, an absence of energy and other more serious complications like panic attacks and phobias. Stress makes people prone to depression, less productive in our work and creates general havoc in relationships.
Stress in Overachievers
Some people just have to fit it all in. They plan their day so tightly that there is no room for loose ends, no time for short breaks, for a few moments of meditation. They are the overachievers and although they fool themselves into thinking that their life is organized the tiny prick holes made by constant tension are creating enormous craters in their health both physical and mental.
Stress in Relationships
Wanting to control other people is a common cause of stressful relationships. You cannot make a person into who they are not. Either accept them the way they are or step aside and let the bonds shrink away. If the obvious attraction doesn't meet the expectation then the relationship may not be healthy for you or your partner.
If you feel you don't want to let go then try to understand were the other person is coming from and decide if you are committed enough, or strong enough, to make personal changes in order to accommodate the differences. Constantly battling with another individual is hazardous to mind, body and soul.
Stress at Home
Home is supposed to be a haven - a place of space and contentment but when the mind and body are overworked and challenged then even 'home' becomes the enemy. You've worked hard all day and now the kids are in a fight, dinner is boiling over on the stove and the in-laws are visiting tomorrow and there is no time to clean.
Some creative management can help alleviate home-bound stress. Don't take on more than you can do. If you have had a crushing day at work think about take-out, or frozen dinners, for the evening meal. A quick brush up and pick up will do wonders for the house and if the in-laws are that picky, hand them a broom. Kids are going to fight. The trick is to work around it by either ignoring it or making strict rules that they have to confine it to their rooms until you have had time to rest.
Attitude is Everything
Basic attitude is one of the best stress breakers. Things that really bother you - barking dogs, irate customers, the boss or the employees can't really be ignored but you can block out some of the irritation by simply refusing to react to the emotions they bring to surface.
You are master of your mind and you can tell it what to do. It takes practice, it takes patience, but it is possible, at least to some degree.
Symptoms of Stress
Some of the major symptoms of stress as it relates to your health are: headaches, changes in bowel routine, muscle tension, not sleeping, feeling nauseous, exhausted, dry mouth and menstrual problems.
Emotional symptoms may include uncontrolled anger, lack of confidence and/or concentration, irrational anxiety and mood swings. Alcoholic binges or feeling a need for drugs are also associated with long term stress.
Take Time to Get in Touch
Take time to get in touch with yourself. Find a quiet place, somewhere, and assess your feelings. Try to pinpoint exactly where your worse stress indicators are originating. Talk to someone, a friend or a professional. Talk it out and see if there is something you can do to relieve the "fight or flight" syndrome that is keeping you twisted in knots. Take time for yourself - you deserve it.
For more helpful tips on stress management check out this website.
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