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Stress ~ Introduction

 

 

What is stress?

Stress is a psychological and physiological response of events that upsets our personal balance almost in some ways.  These events or demands are generally called stressors.  Stressors are usually thought as being negative, such as a busy work schedule or a difficult relationship.  This means that anything that forces us to adapt or adjust to can be a stressor.  However, a stressor may also include positive events such as getting married or receiving a promotion. In this case, an event can be good or bad only if the changes bring strain to our coping skills and adaptive resources, which may leave a end result of an subjective feeling of stress and the body’s biological stress response.

 

What causes stress?

Stress can be caused by many of things such as the state of the world, the environment in which you live or work or your family.  Your stress can also come from your own irresponsible behavior, negative attitudes and feelings, or unrealistic expectations.  The causes of stress are highly individual meaning that what ever you consider stressful depends on different things such as your personality, general outlook on life, problem-solving abilities, and social support system.  

 

Symptoms of Stress

How stress can affect your mind

  • Memory problems

  • Difficulty making decisions

  • Can not concentrate

  • Confusion

  • Thinking Negative

  • Repetitive or racing thoughts

  • Bad judgment

  • Loss of objectivity

  • Desire to escape or run away


How stress can make you feel

  • Moody and hypersensitive

  • Depression

  • Anger and resentment

  • Restlessness and anxiety

  • Easily irritated

  • Lack of confidence

  • Apathy

  • Urge to laugh or cry at inappropriate times


How stress can affect your body

  • Headaches

  • Digestive problems

  • Muscle tension and pain

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Fatigue

  • Chest pain, irregular heartbeat

  • High Blood pressure

  • Weight gain or loss

  • Asthma or shortness of breath

  • Skin problem

  • Decreased sex drive


How stress can affect your behavior

  • Eating more or less

  • Sleeping a little or too much

  • Isolating yourself from others

  • Neglecting your responsibilities

  • Increasing alcohol and drug use

  • Nervous habits

  • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching

  • Overdoing activities

  • Losing you temper

  • Overreacting to unexpected problems


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