Pressure and stress develop and grow depending on the unique perspective of each person. Interaction with people, activities, the environment, and life in general may start out tranquil enough. As situations change, however, pressure points develop that build stress levels. This process may increase tension but the symptoms of stress might go unnoticed.
Becoming aware of the signs of stress is the first step. It is important to admit that we are facing issues and life changes that may be difficult to adjust to. Stress can be deceptive. Human nature is prone to say, "I can tough it out through any hardship". For some issues, this might work.
A person may put on a strong front and pretend that there are no problems and certainly no pressure. Others may set up barriers, come across defensively, put up an angry front, or even become silent or distant. Basically, these people set up walls that make it hard to solve their problems and their own pain. They ignore the signs of stress.
What is needed...? Building an awareness of the potential damage thats being done and then being willing to make changes. Statistics regarding stress related illness should further prompt one to look at the causes of stress.
What is stress?
When the circumstances around us are working as expected, there usually is not any added pressure or strain. Then something happens to change normal behavior or threatens to change the norm. The reaction may be caution or may be fear. In most cases, this kind of stress is expected and will help us get through everyday problems. This stress is from temporary changes and the recovery is quick.
Stress becomes chronic when life issues seem entrenched with no end in sight. It could be an overbearing boss or it be difficult problems between spouses. Many can't take this pressure and end up running from it. On the other hand, the response may be to stand and fight. Either of these approaches could help depending on the issues. Often times nothing is done and the stress levels continue to build. The signs of stress may build slowly.
The definition of stress from Websters is: "(1)Any stimulus, such as fear or pain, that disturbs or interferes with the normal physiololgogical equilibrium or an organism. (2)Physical, emotional, or mental strain or tension."
How does stress effect health?
the initial symptoms of stress can be chronic headaches or increased likelihood of colds. These problems are often ignored. People often look in other directions to overcome these health issues. Some stress nutrition and the need for a more balanced diet. Others look at the lack of sleep and try to overcome in some fashion. The warning signs of stress can be deceptive.
As chronic stress becomes more entrenched, more serious health issues develop. This can include depression, diabetes, hair loss, heart disease, obesity, tooth and gum disease, or ulcers. Most doctors visits originate from symptoms of stress that have gotten out of hand. It would be well to pay attention to early signs before problems worsen.
Interpersonal relationships
Relationships exist between spouses, parent and child, employee and employer, fellow employees, neighbors, and the list goes on.
These relationships change. We change and the other people in our lives change.
The changes can be unexpected and confusing. Human nature and selfcenteredness play a role. When unresolved issues arise in these relationships, the symptoms of stress start to take their toll. Unfortunately, pride or apathy may block resolution and allow stress to become a longer term problem.
Promoting healthy relationships with friends, relatives, or coworkers helps address pent up issues and stress. I need others who are strong enough to reach out to us during trying times. At the same time, I need to be open and honest about issues that are bothering me.
Bottled up frustration has a negative affect both phyically and emotionally. Others can look at my situation objectively. They can listen without judging and offer encouragement and assurance.
They can also offer different perspectives and direction in a sensitive way. I need to have these types of people in my life. I also need to be open and transparent about my problems.
I have had others who seemed to be in my life at the right time and purpose. I have also been able to support others in the same way. Looking back on these various relationships, there are a number of traits that were beneficial in the relationships:
Be a good listener
Mature and has experienced the highs and lows of life.
Patient and understanding in dealing with issues. Refrains from instant solutions.
Stands on principle. Will not always be in agreement.
Handle venting and frustration of the other person.
Able to offer constructive criticism and still show acceptance and encouragement.
Be transparent and honest.
Admit it when I am wrong.
Workload
Tasklists can grow out of control very quickly. This can be at home or at work. The tasks are added by those around us or by circumstances that demand attention. Sometimes the list stays long because the issues are not addressed in an organized way. The number of projects on the worklist can seem overwhelming.
This can cause stress that can impact personnal health and the relationships around us. Tempers flare and others are blamed. Again, symptoms of stress that should be addressed.
Questions that assess effectiveness ways to deal with this overload are as follows:
Is the task really necessary?
Am I doing the work in an organized way?
Have I put off the project too long?
Has the task been planned out properly?
Do I have the right resources to get the job done?
Is there enough focus to get the work done right?
Are the work habits of others impacting your time?
When organizing time, structure should be build into the day’s schedule. More will get more done if you establish routines and stick with them. However, stay flexible and adaptable to the unexpected. Otherwise, when unplanned things happen, you will still experience excessive stress.
Environmental changes
If there is kaos all around, it may be difficult to cope with your world. Interaction with others who are always stressed out or are laying their problems on you can be frustrating. Everyone needs some peace and quiet. Some time alone. Things that can be done to improve environment included making sure that:
You have enough privacy to recharge your batteries.
Social interaction that is supportive and refreshing.
Interpersonal issues resolved in a timely manner.
Clean, organized, and comfortable living space.
When a person has a supportive environment in which they can retreat, handling difficult and stressful issues becomes more managable. Symptoms of stress often require the cooperation of the whole family.
Getting help?
Living on this earth automatically signs us up for the trials and stresses of life. Does stress affect your overall health? The answer is YES.
When stress is prolonged, emotional and physical problems occur. Trying to solve the issues on your own may not work. Pride often gets in the way of asking for help. People don't like to admit that there is a problem. Ask. Let others know that you need help.
Symptoms of stress
are a good indicators that things are not right. Pay attention to these signs and then be willing to take the necessary steps. Hopefully, those around you will also understand and participate in reducing the stress.
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