What is Stress?

Causes of stress

Stress is not a modern problem. It has always been part of everyday life. It occurs when we are faced with challenges which we perceive to be threatening. Our perception of what is stressful can vary widely but we all respond to it in the same way - the "Fight or Flight" response. This prepares our bodies for instant action at times of danger and has played a key role in mankind's survival. However these days, "fight or flight" is usually no longer appropriate - we are more likely to have to "grin and bear it". Unfortunately our bodies don't recognise this so when we become stressed we still get physiologically aroused. As we have no means of discharging this excessive energy, this tension can lead to health problems if it occurs on a regular basis.

We should recognise that a certain amount of stress is good for us. It can be a very positive force and enables us to achieve high levels of performance. We need it to operate at our maximum efficiency. However if this state of stimulation is prolonged or excessive, then the healthy response becomes a pathological one. Stress then becomes distress.

Recognising stress

Our bodies are equipped to deal with stress very well up to a certain level. When stress becomes too pervasive, we become exhausted and our bodies cease to operate properly. Stress can manifest itself in many ways. Some of these are:

• Nervous reflexes - biting nails, clenching jaws, grinding teeth, hunching shoulders, drumming fingers, clenching fists, general tension
• Physical illness - digestive problems, headaches, migraines, asthma, sexual disorders, skin problems, high blood pressure, ulcers, heart problems
• Mood changes - anxiety, depression, irritability, anger, frustration, impatience, hopelessness, restlessness, mood swings
• Behaviour - aggression, disturbed sleep, hyperactivity, over-reactions, emotional, outbursts, talking too loudly, poor work performance

The amount of stress we can cope with is different for everyone. But we all have our stress "peak" beyond which our health is affected. We need to recognise the warning signs before it is too late. Some of the more common signs are:

• anxiety
• sleeping problems
• chronic tiredness
• no energy
• eating disorders
• hyperventilation
• panic attacks

as well as those listed above.

Managing stress

In order to manage stress, we need to identify our stress triggers ie. the events or situations that makes us stressed. It is important to assess the areas of our lives where stress is excessive. Some common problem areas are:

• relationships
• job/work
• diet
• exercise
• environment

The very nature of stress-related problems means that it usually affects us on more than one level. Stress is a matter of perception - what is stressful to one person is not to another. The trick is to get the right balance of stress in our lives. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer as there is no one single solution to these problems. A holistic approach is often the most effective way.

There are two schools of thought in dealing with stress-related problems. The first one is problem-focused. This involves breaking problems down to their smallest denominator and identifying which are resolvable and which are not. Its aim is to change the problem wherever possible eg. change your job, change your diet, etc. The second is emotion-focused. Its intention is not to change the situation but how we feel about it. It involves techniques for changing behaviour such as relaxation, exercise and bio-feedback techniques. Usually a combination of the two methods works best.

© ENERGI Workshops     

    Website by  Cordis Internet Limited