Stress

What is it?
Stress is how your body responds to emotional or physical strain. It is caused by any kind of demand to which you must adapt, adjust or respond; it is your body's response to anything that makes you feel pressured or threatened

Symptoms of Stress:

Physical: Fatigue Muscle tension Headaches Back pain Gastrointestinal distress Elevated blood pressure Sleep disturbances

Emotional: Worrying Depression Impatience and irritability Frustration Loneliness Powerlessness Anger Inflexibility

Behavioral: Crying Agitation Change in eating habits Use of mood altering substances Forgetfulness and inability to concentrate Ineffectiveness at work Absence from work Problems in interpersonal relationships Sexual dysfunction

Do You Know How to Manage Personal Stress?

1. I manage my time effectively.
2. I use assertive statements to protect my right to say "no" to others.
3. I regularly share my feelings with someone close to me.
4. I do activities that are meaningful to me.
5. I eat a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
6. I do aerobic exercise regularly.
7. I practice relaxation techniques daily.
8. I examine my attitudes to see if I create unnecessary life pressures.
9. I spend some leisure time in a place where I have a change of scenery.
10. I have talked with my boss about my work expectations/commitments.
11. I have talked with members of my household to divide responsibilities.
12. I get enough sleep every night.
13. I use humor on a regular basis.
14. I allow extra time for everything I do.
15. I do not drink alcohol or I drink in moderation.
16. I limit my caffeine intake.
17. I focus on positive instead of negative thoughts.

A portion of above information is from Assessments A to Z (Jossey-Bass/Pfeiffer), Dr. John H Hung, and Wisconsin Clearinghouse for Prevention Resources