FOR STRESS AWARENESS DAY
21 April 2024What is stress?
Stress is a natural human reaction that encourages us to deal with problems and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. However, the way we respond to stress has a strong impact on our overall well-being.
How does stress affect us?
Stress affects both the mind and the body. A little bit of stress is good for us and can help us to perform our daily tasks, as it has a mobilising effect on the body. Too much stress can cause physical and mental health problems.
What are the signs of stress?
Stress can be accompanied by anxiety and irritability. When we are stressed, it is difficult to concentrate. We may experience headaches or other body aches, stomach upset, or sleep problems. We may lose our appetite or eat more than usual. Chronic stress can worsen existing health problems and increase the use of alcohol, tobacco and other substances.
Does everyone react to stress in the same way?
No, everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. Coping styles and symptoms of stress can vary from person to person.
Should I expect stress in difficult situations?
Yes, it's natural to feel stressed in challenging situations, such as job interviews, school exams, an extremely difficult or dangerous job, or conflict with family, friends or colleagues. For many people, stress decreases over time as the situation improves or as they learn to cope emotionally.
I feel stressed, does it mean I can't work?
Most people manage stress well and continue to work. If you find it difficult to cope with stress on your own, you should seek medical help.
How can I manage stress?
- Stick to your daily routine.
Establish time for regular meals, time with family members, time for exercise, daily activities and different types of relaxation.
- Get enough sleep.
Sleep restores, relaxes, rejuvenates our bodies and can help eliminate the effects of stress.
- Communicate.
Keep in touch with family and friends, and share your problems and feelings with people you trust. Communication can lift your mood and help you feel less stressed.
- Stick to a healthy diet.
What we eat and drink affects our health. Try to eat a balanced diet and eat at regular intervals. Drink plenty of fluids. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly.
Regular walks and daily exercise can help reduce stress.
- Limit the time you spend following the news.
Limit your time watching the news on TV and social media if it increases your stress.
- Learn to manage stress.
Use the WHO stress management toolkit, Essential Skills for Times of Stress, which aims to equip people with practical skills to manage stress. This guide is intended for anyone who is stressed. A few minutes each day is enough time to practice the self-help techniques in the guide, along with the accompanying audio exercises.
Take care of your mental health!
I.Khablak, medical assistant at the VN(s) of Vocational Education and Training Institution
