Stress management
Information:
DEFINITION
Stress is defined as a feeling of tension that is both emotional and physical. It can occur in specific situations. Different people perceive different situations as stressful. Stress management refers to the effort to control and reduce the tension that occurs with a situation that is considered difficult or unmanageable. (See also Stress in childhood)
FACTORS THAT ASSIST IN STRESS MANAGEMENT
Stress management involves the effort of a person in making emotional and physical changes. The degree of stress and the desire to make the changes will determine the level of change that will take place.
ASSESSING THE EXISTENCE OF STRESS
Attitude: The attitude of an individual can influence whether a situation or emotion is stressful or not. A person with a negative attitude will often perceive many situations as being stressful. Negative attitude is a predictor of stress, because this type of person responds with more stress than a person with a more positive attitude.
Physical well-being: If the nutritional status of the person is poor, the body is stressed and the person is not able to respond to a stressful situation. As a result, the person can be more susceptible to infections. A poor nutritional state can be related to unhealthy food choices, inadequate food intake, or an erratic eating schedule. A nutritionally unbalanced eating pattern can result in an inadequate intake of nutrients.
Physical activity: Inadequate physical activity can result in a stressful state for the body. Physical activity has many physiologic benefits. A consistent program of physical activity can contribute to a decrease in depression, if it exists. It also improves the feeling of well-being.
Support systems: A minimal or total lack of support systems can be a sign of family problems or of social interaction in general. Social situations can be beyond the coping ability of a stressed person.
Relaxation: When a person has no hobbies or means of relaxation, they may be unable to handle stressful situations because the individual has no outlet for stress.
AN INDIVIDUAL STRESS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM- Positive thinking.
- Refocus the negative to be positive.
- Talk to positively to yourself.
- Plan some fun.
- Make an effort to stop negative thoughts.
Physical activity:- Start an individualized program of physical activity.
- Decide on a specific time, type, frequency, and level of physical activity.
Nutrition:- Plan to eat foods for improved health and well-being.
- Use the food guide pyramid to help select healthy food choices.
- Eat an appropriate amount of food at a reasonable schedule.
Social support:- Make an effort to interact socially with people.
- Reach out to individuals.
- Nurture yourself and others.
Relaxation:- Use relaxation techniques. There are many relaxation techniques (guided imagery, listening to music, etc.); learn about and try different techniques and choose one or two that work for you.
- Take time for personal interests and hobbies.
- Listen to one's body.
- Take a mini retreat.
RESOURCES
If stress management does not work at a personal level, there are professional individuals such as licensed social workers and psychologists who can help. Scheduling time with one of these professionals is often helpful in learning stress management strategies, including relaxation techniques. Support groups of various types are also available through the community.
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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