Facts of Life

Life is often difficult. When things get tough it is natural to feel stressed out. Knowing what stress is and what you can do about it is the first step in dealing with the stress in your life.

What is Stress?

Stress is what you feel when life's demands seem more than you can handle comfortably. Usually stress occurs for short periods of time. Stress can be good. It can act as a motivator; but too much stress, for too long, will lead to burnout. Too prevent burnout from happening, learn to identify what is stressing you out and then take charge of your situation.

I read this article, it said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, smoking too much, impulse buying, driving too fast. Are they kidding? This is my idea of a great day!

Signs of Stress

• feeling tense
• pounding, rapid heartbeat
• shallow breathing
• churning stomach
• feeling tired most of the time
• can't concentrate
• loss of patience
• getting angry easily
• inability to sleep
• irritable
• change in eating patterns

Whatever is bothering you today will eventually go away. Be patient!

Are You STRESSED Out?

1. Do you feel like you are going to lose it" if one more thing happens to you?
2. Are you tired all the time?
3. Do you find you need to be alone more than usual?
4. Have you lost your appetite?
5. Are you eating more than you normally do?
6. Has your use of alcohol or drugs increased?
7. Do you feel like you need a break from everyday life?
8. Does it feel like you have too much too handle?
9. Are you wishing you could just runaway and hide?
10. Do you feel like arguing a lot of the time?

If you answered " yes " to two or more of these questions, this may be a sign that you are stressed out.

Take Charge of Stress With These Simple Tips

1. Learn how stress affects you. Understand the symptoms of stress and deal with them.
2. Find support systems (family, friends, church, support groups) that will encourage you to keep going when times are tough.
3. Enjoy a hobby.
4. Take a holiday.
5. Take the day off and just relax.
6. Do something fun.
7. Talk, talk, talk, about the problem.
8. Write down what is bothering you.
9. Get away from whatever is stressing you out.