Causes.
Stress is the body’s and mind’s way of meeting a challenge, such
as the following:
• Change in life, on the job, or in daily routines
• Money problems
• Illness or injury
• Family changes
• Retirement
Any one of the above may be minor, but many minor challenges can
add up to a very stressful
situation.
Anxiety.
Stress leads to a build-up of tension that, if not relieved, can
cause anxiety — a fear of what
might happen even when no threat exists. Some signs of anxiety are
nervousness, dizziness,
trembling, a pounding heart, inability to relax, breathing
difficulties, and abnormal eating habits.
A little anxiety is necessary to stay alert, but prolonged anxiety
can lead to serious health problems
such as ulcers and high blood pressure and can impair the ability
to enjoy life.
Depression.
The disappointments or frustrations that cause stress also can
lead to depression, a serious mental
illness characterized by fatigue, insomnia, boredom, restlessness,
lack of interest in life, and
withdrawal. Left untreated, depression can lead to feelings of
unworthiness, isolation, and even
suicide.
Reducing stress.
Because some stress in life is unavoidable, avoiding stress when
possible is a good mental-health
practice. Below are some tips.
• Talk things over with a friend or someone who is involved in the
problem.
• Exercise regularly.
• Plan work to make the best use of time.
• Take a break.
• Learn to relax.
• Be realistic.
• Avoid stressful situations.
• Work to change stressful conditions.
Some don’ts.
There are ways to relieve stress that are actually more harmful in
the long run.
• Don’t turn to drugs or alcohol.
• Don’t smoke.
• Don’t drink beverages that contain caffeine.
• Don’t ignore the warning signs: nervousness, irritability,
panic, mysterious aches and
pains, headaches, insomnia, dizziness, pounding heart, or abnormal
eating habits.
Getting help.
In a situation where stress is getting out of hand, don’t hesitate
to ask for help. Asking for help is
not a sign of weakness, but a sign of intelligence. Many employers
offer employee assistance programs,
and schools have counselors who can help. Or, consult a physician
or community mental
health center. Mental health professionals can help in looking at
life, finding the sources of stress,
and suggesting ways to deal with it.
People under stress can also help one another by being good
listeners, offering
constructive advice or assistance, and suggesting professional
help and just being supportive of
those who choose to seek such help.
Stress is an unavoidable and
necessary part of life. It helps the mind and body deal with life's challenges,
such as an algebra test, a job
interview, or another driver pulling out in front of us. It accelerates the
heart
rate, rushes adrenalin to the
muscles, and makes people mentally alert.
But too much stress is harmful.
If it doesn't disappear after the challenge is met, or if challenges occur too
often, then it can affect both
mental and physical health.
Dealing with and reducing stress can improve both
physical and mental health.
Refrences : http://dmh.mo.gov/docs/mentalillness/stress.pdf
Hasminee Uma K. E. NIM : 12410215
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