The world is growing at a fast pace introducing new developments and increasing the responsibilities for humans and with these responsibilities, rises stress for individuals. It is a natural physical and mental reaction each individual will eventually experience in their lifetime.
According to American Psychological Association, Millennials (ages 18 to 33) and Gen X’ers (ages 34 to 47) report the highest average stress levels, they have also stated that stress has increased for a considerable number of Americans, regardless of their age. With no specific age to attack, stress has taken over not only adults but the youngsters of our world as well. It may be difficult to believe, but would you be sure that the youngsters surrounding you are completely free of stress? Although they may appear well physically, are you certain that they aren’t having mental traumas and fighting against it like how you possibly are everyday? It must be known by everyone that, stress at any age will still be considered stress. It can be the cause of decrease in productivity, irritating headaches and frequent insomnia rather than just illness for anyone of any age.
THE CAUSES OF STRESS
We don’t know what exactly is the reason for stress. It mostly depends on a persons mental state and daily life. In short, stress is different for each individual just as how everyone is different in their own way. So what you may find stressful may be a piece of cake for the one beside you. But that does not mean that it won’t harm you. The main reasons why people are stressed are:
Life stress:
- deaths of loved ones
- relationship problems
- divorce
- loss of a job
- financial problems
- children and family
- getting married
- moving to a new home
- chronic illness or injury
- emotional problems (depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, low self-esteem)
- traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, theft, rape, or violence against you or a loved one
Work stress:
- having too much responsibilities
- having a heavy workload
- working long hours
- working under dangerous conditions
- having to give live speeches in front of audience
- facing discrimination or harassment at work
- job loss or fear of losing job
- retirement
Other:
- fear and uncertainty about things
- attitudes and perception on how one views the world or a particular situation
- unrealistic expectations such as expectation to do things perfect all the time
- major life changes
- negative self-talks
Overall, the stress level of a person can differ based on how you respond to some situations. While some people can easily let go or overcome things, the rest of the people tend to worry excessively causing mental illness majority of the time. Whatever it may be, it is important to identify when one is in stress, and try to manage it as much as possible.
SYMPTOMS AND EFFECTS OF STRESS
On your body
- headaches
- muscle pain
- chest pain
- fatigue
- reproductive issues
- stomachache
- digestive problems
- rise of heart attack
- pounding heart
- heart disease
- weight problems
- weakend immune system
- high blood sugar
- high blood pressure
- sleep problems
- erectile dysfunction
- missed periods
- memory problems
- constant worrying
- frequent colds or flu
On your mood
- Increased depression and anxiety
- Restlessness
- Lack of motivation or focus
- Anxious or racing thoughts
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Irritability or anger
- Sadness
- Loneliness and isolation
On your behavior
- Inability to concentrate
- Seeing only the negative
- Overeating or under-eating
- Angry outbursts
- Drug or alcohol misuse
- Tobacco use
- Social withdrawal
- Exercising less often
- sleeping too much or less
- Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities
- Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)
HOW TO MANAGE STRESS
Of course we all want to get rid of this unwanted guest of ours, don’t we? but is it possible to do that? Luckily, it is! There are easy steps that one can take gradually to get rid of stress. While our lifestyle is the main causes of stress, why don’t we try by adding a tiny bit of change to not let stress succeed in interpreting with our lives?
- Move more: moving is good for your heart and your mind as it can serve as a distraction from all the stress and perhaps even make you smile.
- Talk to a friend: no, I’m not talking about you having a conversation with your friend about how your stress is making your perfect life a mess. Talk to your friend about anything that can get your mind off all the stress. The longer the chat goes the better it is for you, but make sure you’re talking about something that will make you happy rather than something that will worsen your mood.
- Get enough sleep: this can help you have a bright day with more productivity and creativity, rather than having to be already tired before the day even starts, feeling all cranky and overwhelmed. If you want to do that, then you better cancel all the plans of binge-watching your favorite show tonight and look forward to getting a good 7 to 9 hours of peaceful sleep.
- Spending time with family: there is no happiness that can be compared to the ones that you receive when you’re with your family. You get an unexplainable satisfaction when you spent time with your family and have fun with them, after all family is no ordinary thing.
It’s not for sure if these can help relieve stress completely, however, it can keep you distracted from whatever is making you stressed. Perhaps, sticking to these habits and making it a part of your daily life can even make you forget about all the stress at the end of the day, returning you back to the happy normal you.
