What is Stress & How To Stress Less

Sep 25

Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.

Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress just in varying degrees.

The most common signs of stress are:

Irritability ,anger, feeling impatient or wound up
Over-burdened or overwhelmed
Anxious, nervous or afraid
Like your thoughts are racing and you can’t switch them off
Unable to enjoy yourself
Feeling depressed
Feeling uninterested in life
Feeling like you’ve lost your sense of humor

Types of Stress are acute stress, chronic stress, and episodic acute stress.

Acute Stress is usually brief (traffic jam, argument with a loved one, criticism from your boss)
Chronic Stress is prolonged (starting a new job, losing a job, difficulties at work or school)
Episodic acute stress is short- term but frequent (people who make self-inflicted, unrealistic or unreasonable demands which impacts someone’s ability to move forward with their goal)
Positive Stress can be fun and exciting but can also take a toll (riding a roller coaster or meeting an exciting challenge in your life)

Ways to manage stress:

Deep Breath (I can’t say this one enough, it will help your central nervous system go from high alert to calm)
Socialize (speaking with people and getting perspectives/ getting out of your head is very helpful for stress
Exercise- (let’s give your stress a positive outlet to be released from the body)
Sleep (this is a basic need and your mind and body will thank you if you have good sleep hygiene)