subject: Are You Stressed To The Max? [print this page] One thing Ive learned about stress is that it isnt always a bad thing. Stress helps us gear up to meet challenges. However, beyond a certain point, stress can be harmful to your health.
According to helpguide.org, stress can effect:
blood pressure
immune system
can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke
contribute to infertility
speed up the aging process
increase muscle and back pain
headache
stiff neck
digestive problems
sleep problems
depression
Are you stressed? Check out the warning signs:
Cognitive Symptoms
inability to concentrate
poor judgment
seeing only the negative
anxious or racing thoughts
constant worrying
Emotional Symptoms
moodiness
irritability or short temper
agitation, inability to relax
feeling overwhelmed
sense of loneliness and isolation
depression or general unhappiness Physical Symptoms
aches and pains
diarrhea or constipation
nausea, dizziness
chest pain, rapid heartbeat
loss of sex drive
frequent colds Behavioral Symptoms
eating more or less
sleeping too much or too little
isolating yourself from others
procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities
using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax
memory problems
nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)
If you fall into these categories (and most of us do) find
ways to limit or avoid stress in your life. If thats not
possible, find a good outlet.
Tip: For some it may be cooking, for others exercise is a great way to relieve stress. It may help to create a list of things to do each day so that you dont let everything pile up at once. But dont be so rigid that you cant relax. Make time for yourself each day. Make YOU a priority.
For more information on stress and ways to manage your stress level go to http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm
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