Stress
Stress - who doesn't have it? It is beyond cliche to say that stress is endemic in modern life - it's a truism. We hear it so often that it's lost its meaning. Stress is often defined as the body's response to the demands of life. Stress really includes the mind and emotions as well. Stress is the internal, conditioned reaction of a person to perceived external pressures. Stress is experienced as thoughts and feelings, as well as physical processes.
Some of the more common, highly stressful events in life include:
- Losing one's job
- Getting divorced
- Getting married
- Having a child
- Moving
- Getting a promotion or raise
- The death of a family member
- A diagnosis of serious illness
Since these events are normal parts of the life cycle, it is clear stress is a normal part of life. But how much is too much? Stress reduction is surely a multimillion dollar industry, when you consider everything from antacids and heart surgery to self-help seminars and meditation gurus. Few people will deny being stressed, but for many, stress becomes almost unbearable and the result can be unpleasant and even tragic. Research has shown that stress can lead to:
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Reduced or increased appetite
- Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol
- Diminished physical health
- Decreased productivity and enjoyment at work
- Decreased intimacy
- Migraine headaches and other physical complaints
- Depression
- Ulcer, heart attack, stroke
Yes, stress is a normal part of life. Without it, our lives would be dreary and dull, and we would never really know what we are capable of. But when the stress of life leads to drug abuse, chronic physical ailments or pain, an absence of pleasure or relaxation in life, lost sleep, lost weight, or other significant changes for the worse, it is time to ask for help. Some people may avoid asking for help, believing that in our modern, rapid-paced culture, "handling it all" on one's own is a must. But in fact, everyone needs some assistance in managing stress at times. Soldiers, astronauts, politicians, actors, athletes, teachers and yes, even therapists - just about anyone you can think of - all seek a listening ear, some sage advice, aid with a difficult task or decision, or an opportunity for a little R&R if they are feeling overstressed.