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"There cannot be a stressful crisis next week…. My schedule is already full."......Henry Kissinger
"Reality is the leading cause of stress for those in touch with it."......Jane Wagner
Stress is a part of life. Our reaction to stress is the way our body responds
to change or tense situations. Often, the stress we feel comes as much from how
we react to things as from the things themselves.
A certain amount of stress can be positive. It can motivate you and help you
to focus, but too much stress can negatively affect your health. Consequences of
negative stress may include: alcohol or drug abuse, accidents, violence, eating
disorders, family problems, sleep disturbances, weakened immune system,
exhaustion, depression, and burnout syndrome. Stress can also lead to heart
disease, strokes, and even cancer.
Everyone responds differently to stressful situations. Becoming more aware of
your stressors can help you better respond to stressful events.
| Stressors and Stressful Events |
- Major life-changing events such as getting married, having a
baby, moving, or experiencing a change in employment.
- Ongoing concerns like health problems, finances, family, or
relationship problems.
- Job-related stresses like: unrealistic deadlines, schedule
conflicts, interruptions, the physical environment such as noise,
vibration, standing, lifting, leadership demands, added
responsibility, interacting with the public, customers or
co-workers.
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| Common Symptoms of Stress |
- Headache
- Pain in neck, shoulders, or back
- Anger or irritability
- Unable to concentrate
- Fatigue
- Upset Stomach, nausea, diarrhea
- Overeating
- Rapid breathing /heart rate
- Sweating and sweaty palms
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| Tips to Relieve Stress |
- Prioritize and get organized
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Balance personal, work and family needs
- Listen to music
- Take a relaxing shower or bath
- Laugh
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- Talk to family or friends
- Exercise…go for a walk or try a yoga class
- Write in a journal
- Read a book or magazine
- Take deep breaths
- Get a massage
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Manage Stress Resources
Manage Stress overview from
Healthfinder.gov
Mayo Clinic Working Life
This site has info on work-related stress, safety, and ergonomics.
Managing Stress Tutorial from
Medline Plus
Manage Stress Tips and Posters from NC HealthSmart Toolkit
(All posters and tip sheets from the NC HealthSmart Toolkit can be printed and
posted around the office.)
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