Stress is a common reaction to the demands and pressure of modern life. We all feel it from time to time and we all have our own stress management strategies and ways of coping.
Stress can have a positive effect, giving us the extra energy and concentration to meet a deadline or the capacity to react to threatening situations.
Chronic stress, however, can cause major problems with relationships, work and our mental and physical health and in those cases stress management strategies require the guidance of a trained professional.
Many people struggle to develop balance in their life which can often lead to high levels of burnout and depression. Pressures such as work and domestic responsibilities, health problems and feelings of having too little time to do what we need to all contribute to us not managing our stress. Stress levels can be exacerbated by factors such as unhealthy coping styles, differing personality types, unhelpful thought processes and even factors such as general fitness and poor sleep routines.
Symptoms of stress include: Depression, poor concentration, chronic insomnia, high blood pressure, headaches, indigestion and general aches and pains, lack of confidence and low self-esteem, a sense of loneliness and isolation, a weakened immune system, lower tolerance levels, mood changes and anxiety.