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What is stress?
Stress is defined as a
non-specific response of the body to any demand made upon it
which results in symptoms such as rise in the blood pressure,
release of hormones, quickness of breathe, tightening of
muscles, perspiration and increased cardiac activity. Stress is
not necessarily negative. Some stress keeps us motivated and
alert, while too little stress can create problems. However, too
much stress can trigger problems with mental and physical
health, particularly over a prolonged period of time.
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When Stress becomes unhealthy
Unhealthy levels of stress affect us
physically, mentally and emotionally.
- Physical signs of stress
include headaches, muscle aches, gastro-intestinal (stomach)
upset, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, cold or sweaty
hands, difficulty with sleep and persistent feelings of fatigue
- Mental signs of stress include
loss of concentration, difficulty making decisions, poor
judgment, forgetfulness, disorganisation, periods when the mind
goes blank and negative thoughts
- Emotional signs of stress
include irritability, hostility, moodiness, feelings of dread,
tension, depression and anxiety
What should I do if I am
feeling stressed?
- Take some time out to identify
the specific issues or problems bothering you. Make a conscious
decision to do something about them.
- Make an effort to priorities
your activities and plan your day. The 10 (or more) things on
your plate are rarely equally important even though they may
sometimes feel that way and planning helps you get everything
done more effectively.
- Be prepared to say "no" to
unnecessary demands.
- Ensure sufficient rest each
day despite a busy schedule. Recognise that pushing yourself to
your physical and mental limits is likely to be
counterproductive.
- Learn how to use breathing
exercises and other similar strategies to calm yourself down
when you find yourself getting worked up.
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Work Stress
An particular
form of stress
Work stress can
be defined as the harmful physical and emotional response that
occurs when the requirements of the job do not match the
capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker
Work stress can
lead to poor health and even injury. Long-term exposure to work
stress has been linked to an increased risk of musculo-skeletal
disorders, depression and job burnout, and may contribute to a
range of debilitating diseases, ranging from cardiovascular
disease to cancer.
Stressful working
conditions also may interfere with an employee's ability to work
safely, contributing to work injuries and illnesses. In the
workplace of the 1990s, the most highly ranked and frequently
reported organisational stressors are potential job loss,
technological advances and ineffective top management. At the work
unit level, work overload, poor supervision, and inadequate
training are the top-ranking stressors. |
