Psychological health;managing stress.

 

Stress and stress management.

Stress is a word that you find many people using nowadays.

Running late, an argument with someone, strict deadline, breaking, or losing some things is a frequent occurrence. When it happens, you will hear someone say, "It is causing me stress." Some even tell others, "You are stress."

 Do we use the word very casually without thinking about its real meaning? Maybe yes. You know if you have stress  by determining the actual meaning of the word and its effects.

 Stress is a physical or emotional tension that causes you to feel uneasy. The feeling is the reaction of the body to demand or challenge due to thought, or even that which causes frustration, anger, or nervousness.

Positive stress

Stress can be a monster, but did you know that it can sometimes be beneficial. It can help meet challenges, sharpen your concentration to get something right and keep you alert. It can also inspire you to do something that you would have postponed like studying instead of relaxing. In emergencies, stress may become a life savior by giving you sudden extra strength for self-defense like spurring you to run from a dangerous situation or slam brakes to prevent a car accident.

Dangerous stress

 Stress is not helpful when it extends beyond a particular point to affect your mood, productivity, quality of life, relationships, and even health. You should know that it is becoming dangerous for you if you have stress that causes you to feel frazzled and overwhelmed, yet you cannot get rid of it.

Stress affects people differently. Some people cope with others, but the body can also handle small doses.  You should plan for medical help if you notice these symptoms of long term and chronic stress.

Physical stress

•           Headaches

•           Low energy

•           Stomach upsets

•           Pains, aches, and tense muscles

•           Rapid heartbeat and chest pain

•           Insomnia

•           Frequent infections and colds

•           Low libido

•           Nervousness and frequently shaking

•           Cold sweating on hands and feet

•           Dry mouth and swallowing difficulties

•           Clenched jaw

Emotional   stress

•           Low self-esteem and worthlessness

•           Loneliness and feeling an urge to avoid others

•           Depression

•           Frequent agitation, frustration, and moodiness

•           Overwhelming feeling and lack of control

•           Difficulties in relaxing

Cognitive stress

•           Stress causes these cognitive (mental) symptoms

•           Constant worry

•           Forgetfulness and disorganization

•           Racing thoughts

•           Poor judgment and inability to focus

•           Pessimism and   negativity

 Chronic stress will also trigger other physical, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular problems that you can mistake for a disease. Consult a doctor, counselor, or therapist if you are suffering from one of the symptoms. A specialist will accurately diagnose stress symptoms,   probable cause, and instill coping mechanisms to reduce harmful effects.  Get medical help if you get chest pains, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or nausea. Also, get quick help if you feel pain in the shoulder, arm, back, or jaw.

Author:Mwangi.