Everyone is familiar with stress, but the way in which people experience it and deal with it varies greatly. Stress is a response to a demand or change. It can range from routine stress associated with daily responsibilities to traumatic stress in response to a threatening situation.
Stress can be good or bad. Good stress can be motivational and lead to increased productivity, or even be life-saving in some situations. We all have a stress response that leads to a quicker pulse, faster breathing and increased activity in our brain. But when this stress is not short-term, as with chronic stress, it can be damaging to your health. Headaches, high blood pressure, loss of sleep and lowered immunity can all result from constant stress.
How can I reduce and manage stress?
The best way to reduce stress is to take steps to prevent it. Stress is not completely avoidable, but the steps below may help you reduce its impact.
- Maintain regular physical activity to improve your overall health and mood.
- Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga.
- Get enough sleep and eat well so that your body has the rest and energy it needs to deal with stress.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine and avoid other triggers.
- Talk to your friends and family; they can help you put your stress in perspective and cope with the demands and changes that may be causing stress in your life.
When should I seek professional help?
Taking steps to reduce your stress and having the support of family and friends can help with routine stress or when you’re experiencing a stressful change in your life. But chronic stress can lead to more serious problems, such as anxiety, panic attacks and depression. If stress starts to negatively affect your work or school performance, your sleeping or eating habits, or your general mood and behavior, it may be time to seek help. Discussing your symptoms with your primary care physician is a good place to start, and he or she will be able to provide recommendations for more help. There are many options available for people struggling with stress, ranging from support groups to therapy and medication, but it is important to find the right treatment for your particular needs.
Below are a few good sources for reliable information:
National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov/)
American Institute of Stress (www.stress.org)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (www.adaa.org)
David Lowenstein, Ph.D. is a psychologist and the clinical director of Lowenstein & Associates, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to providing therapeutic services to individuals and families, he offers training and consultation to numerous associations, schools and agencies around the country. Additionally, he is a frequent radio and TV guest and a resource and contributing writer for numerous newspapers and magazines nationwide. Contact Dr. David Lowenstein at 691 South Fifth Street Columbus, OH 43206 or by phone at 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.
