In very simple terms, stress is the high octane that gets you through crisis situations.
In other words, it is a self-defence mechanism that allows you to tap into your energy reserves to respond to unusual situations beyond your normal capacities or resistance. Depending on their health, their personality, their knowledge and other factors, individuals respond differently to stress.
Stress can be positive when it is under control. Stress-related problems tend to arise when situations are not resolved rapidly enough, when several stressful situations occur simultaneously, or when stress is continuous.
Learn more about stress by taking a look at the following:Being prone to stress
Some individuals are more prone to stress than others. Factors that may make an individual prone to stress include:
- Poor lifestyle habits, including unhealthy nutrition, physical inactivity, lack of sleep, or substance abuse.
- Personality traits, such as a tendency towards perfectionism, obsessive tendencies, insecurity, a controlling personality or a low tolerance for change.
- Social skills and factors, such as a lack of social life, a poor support circle, or an inability to manage conflict.
Recognizing the signs of stress
Signs of stress include:
- Physical signs:
Disrupted sleep patterns, loss of appetite, headaches, fatigue, muscle spasms, skin rashes, tooth grinding, back pain, repetitive colds or flu. - Mental signs:
Memory loss, difficulty in concentrating and making decisions and decreased motivation. - Behavioural changes:
Irritability, mood swings, a loss of sexual desire, a preference for being alone, increased consumption of alcohol, tobacco, coffee or other substances.
Such signs should not be ignored. If ignored, stress may lead to self-neglect, loss of self-respect, violence and depression, and may increase the risk of developing a cardiovascular disease or other serious diseases. If signs of stress persist, you should consult a health professional.
Dealing with stress
The following tips may help you manage your stress better:
- Understand what stresses you and try to correct it.
- A change of attitude can make a big difference.
- Give yourself a break - don't be so demanding.
- Eat well, be physically active and get enough sleep.
- Find someone you trust to confide in.
- Learn to laugh at your mistakes.
- Know your limits and learn to say " no ".
- Watch your spending habits: do not overspend.
- Learn to resolve conflicts in a positive way.
- Act before stress gets out of hand.
- Don't hesitate to seek professional help.
Understanding what stresses you is an important step in managing it.
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