Stress

What is stress?

Stress is a natural component of life that allows us to grow and develop while also allowing us to survive. A certain amount of stress can aid in stress management and resilience. However, it is critical to know how much stress is suitable for an individual. When the stretch that develops them becomes a strain, stress’s constructive effects turn into a negative influence.

Physically, we must stretch, expand, and develop at our own pace in a safe environment, gradually approaching and pushing ourselves to transcend our comfort zones. A strain may occur if these limits are pushed too far or too quickly. External factors can also have an impact on our stress management abilities. For example, just as you might restrict physical activities if you have a cold, if additional stresses pile up to create a larger volume of stress or for a longer length of time, it can contribute to poor mental health.

Sources of Stress

There are numerous sources of stress, each of which is unique. Some situations can be positive for one person but negative for another. An example could be throwing a party or facilitating a group discussion. Some will relish the situation whilst others may dread it.

The increased responsibilities of today’s workplace account for much of today’s stress, but other aspects of modern life are also more stressful than in past generations.

Money difficulties, marriage breakdown or family strife, a sense of self and value, health issues, and bereavement are all cited as major sources of stress, but workplace stress also comes in near the top of that list.

Stress can increase other mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. Because stress, depression, and anxiety account for nearly half of all work-related absences, mental health must be given the same priority as physical health. Physical illness can lead to mental illness and vice versa.

Stress symptoms

Stress manifests itself in various ways for different people. Symptoms can be physical, behavioural, cognitive, or emotional.

The following are just some of them:

Sleep disruption

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with a lack of appetite

Anxiety attacks

Forgetfulness

Lack of ability to learn and perform in job, as well as a lack of confidence

Anger or hopelessness

Nervousness or fidgeting

Irritability or anger

Inability to relax

Stress reduction

In addition to striving to identify and reduce the precise sources of your unique stress, self-care is critical for maintaining good mental health and building resistance to short bursts of stress. 

It’s also important to recognise and regulate your attitude toward change, as having a positive attitude towards change can help you feel less stressed.

Relaxation techniques can also help you overcome the signs of stress and balance your hormones by alternating periods of high adrenaline with periods of low adrenaline.

There is a wealth of online information to help you manage your stress. Meditation, breathing exercises, online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), yoga, and guided meditation are excellent tools for reducing stress over time. To identify the ones that work best for you, try as many as possible.

If you cannot manage your stress levels effectively, and you believe that stress is beginning to have a long-term impact on your ability to function in daily life and relationships, you should seek counselling. Call or visit the booking page on my website to make an appointment.