What is stress?
Stress can be said to be how we feel under pressure or threat. This usually happens when we feel that we cannot direct or control it. We can also define stress as emotional or physical tension that usually occurs when facing a situation that is stressful.Let me share with you a quick story with you. Mark is a junior student at one of the best schools in the state. His seniors were often jealous of him because he was popular, smart, and very handsome that he was noticed wherever he went. They conspired and became close with him. Weeks later, he was chosen to represent his school in a competition and was heavily distracted. It's the day of the competition, everyone hangs on him. The thought of not being able to prepare or even revise flashed through his mind and he could feel the weight of the world. (PAUSE). At this point, I think it's safe to say that Mark would be feeling stressed.
When we experience stress, it can be like Mark's story or maybe you have a lot of responsibilities that are difficult for you to cope with. The definition of what is stressful varies. What is stressful for me may be enjoyable for you. Stress is a natural body response that is necessary for survival, but it can still have a negative effect on a person's body, mood and behavior. I guess we can relate with these definitions of stress.
Signs and symptoms of stress.
The signs and symptoms of stress can vary from person to person and can be divided into emotional and physical signs. They include:
Signs of emotional stress are:
• Unmotivated
• Lack of interest
• Anxiety
• Nervousness
• Concerns
• Anger
• Sadness
• Depression
• Loneliness
Signs of physical stress include:
• Tiredness or low energy
• Headaches
• digestive disorders,
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite or excessive appetite
• Changes in weight
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Forgetfulness and lack of attention
• Difficulty breathing
• Eyes hurt
• Sleep problems etc.
Causes of stress.
There are many, many things that can cause stress.• Being unable to control life situations.
• Being worried about something.
• Being face big challenges in life.
• Being exposed to discrimination, hatred or abuse.
• Thoughts about money, work, finances, family obligations, relationships, personal health issues, bills, safety, etc.
How to reduce stress.
Stress is a common feeling, just like love. Since stress is a normal feeling, there are several ways to reduce stress.
• Be active, do something.
When you're stressed, exercise can help. Exercise can also focus your attention on body movement, which can improve your mood and help you deal with the worries of the day. Exercise like running, gardening, cleaning, or anything else that keeps you active.
• Unhealthy habits are out of the picture.
Some people deal with stress by drinking, smoking, eating too much, or using hard drugs. These habits are bad for your health.
• Meditation.
When you meditate, focus and silence thoughts that can overwhelm your brain and cause stress. Meditation has been scientifically proven to reduce and manage stress.
• Think about paper.
Writing down things that cause you stress can really help reduce stress. For example, you have a lot of things to do and thinking about them can stress you out. Just take a piece of paper and write down each task and the steps to complete each task. Be honest when writing each assignment.
• Eating a healthy diet
• Smile more
• Stay social
• Enough sleep
• Be your hobby
• Seeking consultation
How to handle stress.
Stress is what we can't keep away, but let's deal with stress. Here are some tips to help us deal with stress:
• Know your stress factors:
Know what or who is stressing you out and how you react to them.
• Create boundaries:
Sometimes we get overwhelmed by other people's tasks, and saying no to them can take a lot of stress away.
• Learn to relax:
Often just taking a break can relieve a lot of stress.
• communicate with someone:
Talk to a friend who is willing to listen. Share your questions with them.
• Get support:
If you can't do it all by yourself, ask for help.