Signs of stress cover a broad spectrum of psychological and physiological indicators. They can demonstrate themselves in highly-strung irritability through to lethargy. It is not uncommon for a person suffering from stress to be haranging the kids one moment and the next be fast asleep in some safe corner.

Stress and Anxiety Symptoms

Physical symptoms of stress may include any of the following: tense muscles, upset stomach, diarrhea, headaches, broken sleep, skin disorders, tiredness, excessive sweating, teeth grinding, reduced immunology, problems having sex, hair loss, pains in the chest and increased blood pressure. Psychological symptoms can be: bad judgement, procrastination, indecisiveness, short term memory loss, lack of concentration, muddled thoughts, racing mind. Thus it is obvious that stress can lead to very serious physical and mental consequences. It is not a simple matter of ‘grinning and bearing it’.

Effects of Stress

Stress can lead to a multitude of problems. Just some are: diabetes, heart problems, infections and disease due to low immune system, complications with the intestines, obesity, malnutrition.

Causes of Stress

Stress is very frequently the result of an inability to stop going over and over, in our minds, mistakes we have made. It may not be apparent to the sufferer that that is what they are doing, but it is probably the one single main cause of stress. Patients need to learn, consciously, how to find relief from this type of stress. Other causes of stress include work overload, disorganization, unusual life events (e.g. bereavement, moving home, changing job, divorce) but for most people the stress evaporates over time. Another category of stress is something like bullying in the workplace, which can be an ongoing situation but one that people can learn how to ”switch off’ from.

Natural Stress Management Techniques

I would thoroughly recommend investing in a stress relief / stress management wiki guide book or course. As a medical clinician, I have seen the development of techniques over the past 20 plus years. There is no comparison with what was on offer even just 3 or 4 years ago. Most of the current products are excellent. Short of that, here are some ideas on what not to do and what to positively do.

What Not To Do
Do not focus on just the downsides of everything. Consciously make yourself think about and even write down the positives too. Do not view things as black and white, just good and bad. Do not blame yourself for everything bad. The following foods and drinks may have a deleterious effect, so think about reducing their intake: caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, sugar, salt.

What To Do

Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin nutrients and phytochemicals. Exercise for at least 20 minutes daily. Follow a deep breathing regime. Most importantly, follow the mind exercises described in your guide or e-course. the positive.