Stress: Symptoms and Management

Stress is your body's response to changes in your life. These changes can either be physical, emotional or physiological. When someone experiences changes or challenges that causes stress e.g. work schedule, school, illness, stuck in traffic, late for a meeting etc, the body sends physical or mental responses. 

Stress can act as a motivator or even an important element of living. Like when you have a job interview or a school exam, stress responses helps you work hard and prepare. But stress becomes an issue when you have no relief or relaxation. Stress manifest itself in two ways; physical or psychological.

Some Common Signs Of Stress(Physical)

• Aches and Pain 

• Exhaustion 

• Trouble Sleeping 

• Dizziness 

• Profuse Sweating 

• Low Energy 

• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat 

• Stomach upset 

Emotional Signs Include;

• Depression or Anxiety 

• Anger and Irritability 

• Constant Worry 

• Loss of focus and problem with memory retention 

• Feeling Overwhelmed or uncomfortable  

Few Ways Of Managing Stress 

Managing stress simply means taking control of everything going on; your wellbeing, environment, schedule, relationship and problems. It is a way of keeping the balance in your life. Thus, pace and challenges of day to day living makes stress management a necessity for everyone. So here are some useful tips to managing stress:

Identify The Trigger 

To monitor stress, you must first identify what your stressors are. This is actually a little harder than it sounds because the true triggers of stress aren't always obvious. But to figure out the problem, you have to look closely at your thoughts and attitudes. What is making you angry, tensed and worried? Is it related to home, workplace, school, financial crisis or relationships? Once you've identified the issue, then think about strategies for dealing with them.

Avoid Stimulators 

When going through stress, you may be tempted to take stimulators e.g. cigarettes, pills, drugs or alcohol. Though using these strategies may temporarily reduce the level of stress and provide a sense of relief to the body, they are actually causing more damage in the long run. 

Avoid Unnecessary Stress 

Most people go through a lot of unnecessary stress that should easily be avoided. To reduce stress levels, you must know when and how to avoid irrelevant triggers. Example, if you are already closing in on your limit, whether in your professional or personal life, you should learn to reject any more responsibilities that can act as a booster to your stress levels. 

Create Time For Fun And Relaxation 

Sometimes all you need is time for fun and relaxation. Take a break and go out for a walk or listen to music, little things like this help you take charge of the situation. When you have time for relaxation or fun, it can even be a good way to address life's stressors when the are inevitable. Here are healthy ways to relax and manage stress;

•  Go for a stroll

•  Listen to Music 

• A moment of calm(meditation)

•  Workout

• Talk to a good friend 

• Read a good book 

• Get a massage 

• Take a nap

• Watch a film or comedy show 

•  Play with a pet

Overall, constant stressors without relief can be as a result of health issues. If this is the case, it is advisable to see a health specialist. 

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