Stress Management 101: What is Stress and How to Deal With It?

Studies show that around 77% of people experience physical symptoms such as fatigue/headache because of stress. This is also one of the major reasons why business psychology consulting firms are such a blessing for mankind. This article intends to guide you on the very meaning of stress and what 

STRESS: Defined

Stress can be defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension. This is a result from adverse or demanding circumstances. Even though not all stress is bad (e.g. Eustress), it is typically triggered by something that causes strong feelings of worry or anxiety.

Commonly, the causes of stress are money, the economy, and work. Further stress can also be caused due to health issues, emotional problems, major life changes, family, and conflicts with beliefs and values. Surroundings, such as living in an area with crime or pollution, your social situation, your job, or unemployment are all causes of stress.

TYPES OF STRESS

The first type of stress is called Eustress. It is also called “good” stress due to the fact that it is the type of stress that keeps us motivated to keep working. It provides a sort of incentive to get the job done. It is proven by some studies that humans need some level of stress to keep working and improving their lives.  The second type of stress is called Distress. It is also known as “bad” stress. Distress comes up when the stress felt during eustress is no longer helpful or productive. When ‘good stress’ becomes difficult to handle and tension begins to rise, it turns into distress. 

HOW TO COMBAT STRESS?

Time Out: Do an activity that helps you in clearing your head. Practicing yoga, getting a massage, reading a book, or listening to your favourite music can drastically help.

Accept You Can’t Control It All: You only have control over your actions and not on the outcome. Changing your perspective regarding the perceived threat can be really helpful when you feel stressed. There can always be some things to learn from that experience.

Ask for help: It is important to have a close circle of family members or friends that you can trust. You need to have people around you with whom you can speak openly with. When you experience stress or are going through a stressful time, tell them how you really feel. Asking for help does not make you weak. Speaking with someone else is a good way to get a different perspective. 

Nutritious and Balanced Meals: It is important that you don’t skip any meals. You should also and pack smart and healthy snacks such as apple slices, almonds, or string cheese.  Eating frequently throughout the day will keep your energy levels stable. so you may be less likely to feel a slump or an increase of nervous energy when faced with stress.

Exercise: If you ask someone how it feels to have a regular exercise routine, they would tell you it is one of the best things. Having a daily exercise routine is a great way to master your stress management and it will help you feel better by releasing endorphins.

The Anna Centre is one of the most widely known business psychology consulting firms in Bendigo. If you are going through a rough patch and feel the need for assistance, feel free to contact them. They focus on providing practical and outcome-based services to their clients. Visit their website to know more about their services.