Stress Management
Learn how to cope with stress
Stress Management
Are you experiencing stress in your life? Did you know that stress is a part of life and consists of adapting to change? There are different sources of stress such as environmental, social, and physiological. Stress can motivate us, but it can also make us susceptible to illness. Unfortunately, the inability to effectively manage stress can negatively impact emotional, psychological and physical health. Remember, if you're not sure if stress is the cause of how you are feeling or if you've taken steps to control your stress but your symptoms continue, see your doctor. Your doctor may want to check for other potential health issues.
What is stress?
"Stress" is a reaction!
It is how we respond to people and events that are part of our lives. A "stressor" is an event or environmental condition that triggers a stress response in an individual.
Stressors affect people in 3 different ways-- physical, emotional, and behavioral. Here are some common symptoms of stress:
Physical:
Fatigue, Restlessness, Nauseous, Decreased appetite, Insomnia, Decreased concentration, Headaches
Emotional:
Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Irritable, Overwhelmed, Resentment
Behavioral:
Short fuse, Crying spells, Withdrawing, Not eating, Not sleeping, Decreased memory, Alcohol/substance abuse
What can I do when I am stressed?
How to manage stress effectively
Stress management consists of:
- recognizing when you are stressed,
- relaxation,
- healthy thinking,
- assertive communication.
When we are "stressed," we need to look at how we are responding to what we identify as the source of our stress. While we usually cannot change what we consider the "stressor," we can change how we respond to the stressor. This is a learned response for many and the EAP can help you. Reactions to stress that are not healthy can result in physical, emotional, and behavioral issues, while healthy responses and healthy habits will support you in dealing effectively with stress.