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Stress is a natural part of everyday life. Left unchecked, however, stress can cause physical, emotional and behavioral disorders that can affect your health, vitality and peace-of-mind, and personal and professional relationships.
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Everyone handles stress differently, some better than others. If you think you have too much stress in your life, it may be hopeful to talk with a doctor, member of the clergy or other caring professional. Because reactions to stress can be a factor in depression, anxiety and other mental and emotional disorders, they may suggest that you consult
with a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or other qualified counselor.
Here is a checklist of negative reactions to stress and tension:
• Do minor problems and disappointments upset you excessively?
• Do small pleasures of life fail to satisfy you?
• Are you unable to stop worrying?
• Do you feel inadequate or suffer from self doubt?
• Are you constantly tired?
• Do you experience flashes of anger over minor problems?
• Have you noticed a change in sleeping or eating patterns?
• Do you suffer from chronic pain, headaches or backaches?
If you answered "yes" to most of these questions, consider the following suggestions for reading or controlling stress:
• Be Realistic. If you feel overwhelmed by some activities, learn to say NO!
• Shed the "superman/women" urge. No one is perfect, so don't expect perfection from yourself or others.
• Meditate for 10 to 20 minutes.
• Visualize how you can manage a stressful situation more successfully.
• Take one thing at a time. Prioritize your tasks from your worries.
• Live a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, adequate rest, regular exercize, limited caffeine and alcohol, and balanced work and play
• Share your feelings with family and friends. Don't try to cope alone.
• Give in occasionally. Be flexible.
• Go easy with criticism. You may be expecting too much.
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