Learn How To Recognize And Manage Stress

In our modern society, stress runs rampant at home, work and in our relationships. Sadly, stress has become a natural occurrence for many people. We usually think of stress as a positive experience as it challenges us to perform under pressure and motivates us to be our best. It is viewed as the body's way to preparing to meet a touch situation with focus, strength, stamina and heightened alertness. However, there is an ugly side to stress.

The Negative Side Effects Of Stress

Stress is both a psychological and biological response when the body feels threatened mentally, physically and/or emotionally. Events that provoke stress are called stressors and cover a wide range of situations. The human body responds to stressors by activating the nervous system and specific hormones. This is a completely natural response better known as the stress response. Under normal circumstances, stress does motivate a person to perform better. If the response overreacts or doesn't stop, you begin to experience negative side effects.

Pressures that last too long or are overly intense often result in what is known as stress overload. One common example is shouldering stressful troubles alone. Some stressful situations are so extreme they may require special attention and care such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This disorder is a reaction to extremely traumatic events.

Some people have anxiety problems which result in stress overload. Even the smallest difficulties or stressors become a major crisis. When a person frequently feels tense, upset, worried or stress, they may have an anxiety disorder. Like PTSD, anxiety problems usually need special attention or medication. Anyone experiencing frequent stress overload should consider seeking professional help to learn to handle their stress and determine if there is an underlying condition.

Signs of Stress Overload

People who are experiencing stress overload may notice some of the following signs:

Cognitive symptoms

• Memory problems

• Inability to concentrate

• Poor judgment

• Seeing only the negative

• Anxious or racing thoughts

• Constant worrying

Emotional symptoms

• Moodiness

• Irritability or short temper

• Agitation, inability to relax

• Feeling overwhelmed

• Sense of loneliness and isolation

• Depression or general unhappiness

Physical symptoms

• Aches and pains

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Nausea, dizziness

• Chest pain, rapid heartbeat

• Loss of sex drive

• Frequent colds

Behavioral symptoms

• Eating more or less

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Isolating oneself from others

• Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities

• Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax

• Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)

Dealing With Stress

One excellent way to deal with stress is to express your thoughts and emotions in a safe, positive environment. Fufflist is a social network / video blogging community that allows you to share your thoughts via videos, photos and text. Have a lot on your mind? Share funny video rants on issues that get under your skin. The best part is you'll connect with others who share your interests, providing you with a community of friends to help you better handle your stress and fears, leading to better health.