MANAGE STRESS BEFORE IT MANAGE YOU....!!

INTRODUCTION

Do you have trouble concentrating? Are you always worrying?
Do you feel anxious such that your hands tremble and your palms get sweaty?
These are all signs of stress. You can control stress and not let it control you!


WHAT IS STRESS??

Stress is the body's response to any physical or emotional changes in life. This response includes the release of a hormone, adrenaline, in the body. Adrenaline causes an increase in heart rate, breathing and in blood sugar levels. It also diverts the blood flow from your digestive system to your muscles (e.g. leg muscles ).

This response prepares you for " fight or flight". Therefore you will feel more alert.

We all experience stress as we cope with daily events. Daily demands such as rules, responsibilities, decisions, changes, relationships, illness and money can cause stress.
Stress can give life some spice and excitement. Positive stress helps you to cope with problems that might arise.
On the other hand, living under very stressful conditions for long periods of time, may harm your health, your relationships, and your enjoyment of life.



WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF STRESS??


Both positive and negative life events can lead to stress. Common causes could include:

Major Life Changes : Death of loved ones, Accidents, Legal Issues, Relocation, Debt, Illness, Marriage, Pregnancy, New job, Divorce, Unemployment.

Environmental Events: Excessive noise, Traffic jams, Time pressure, Competition, Health epidemic.




Hopefully useful,
Source: Health Promotion Board - Singapore