| Health Tips - Stress |
October 15, 2008 |
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Hello,
This edition is dedicated to a subject we all deal with from time to time - stress. However for many stress is an ongoing issue. Recent research suggests that anywhere from two-thirds to 90 percent of illness is stress-related.
Below we have included on information on what stress is, the symptoms that are common to stress and some choices for prevention and treatment.
Good Health,
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| What Is Stress |
| Most of us know exactly what stress is. Stress is the emotional and physical strain (good and bad) caused by our response to pressure from the outside world.
It is impossible to live without some stress. Most of us wouldn't want to, because it gives life some spice and excitement. However, if stress gets out of control, it may harm your health, your relationships, and your enjoyment of life.
We all face different challenges and obstacles, and sometimes the pressure is hard to handle. When we feel overwhelmed, under the gun, or unsure of how to meet the demands placed on us, we experience stress.
In small doses, stress can be a good thing. It can give you the push you need, motivating you to do your best and to stay focused and alert. Stress is what keeps you on your toes during a presentation at work or drives you to study for your midterm when you would rather be watching TV. However, when the going gets too tough and life's demands exceed your ability to cope, stress becomes a threat to both your physical and emotional well-being.
Anything that forces us to adjust can be a stressor. This includes positive events such as getting married or receiving a promotion. Regardless of whether an event is good or bad, if the changes it brings strain our coping skills and adaptive resources, the end result is the subjective feeling of stress and the body's biological stress response.
According to the American Psychological Association, fifty-four percent of Americans are concerned about the level of stress in their everyday lives.
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| Some Causes of Stress |
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The causes of stress are highly individual. What you consider stressful depends on many factors, including your personality, general outlook on life, problem-solving abilities, and social support system. Something that is stressful to you may be neutral or even enjoyable to someone else
Anything can cause stress. Some common causes of chronic stress include:
- Poverty and financial worries
- Long-term unemployment
- Dysfunctional family relationships
- A death
- Holidays
- Divorce
- Caring for a chronically ill family member
- Feeling trapped in unhealthy relationships or career choices
- Living in an area besieged by war or violence
- Bullying or harassment
- Perfectionism
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| Symptoms of Stress |
This is a partial list of how stress can affect your body
- Headaches.
- Digestive problems.
- Muscle tension and pain.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Fatigue.
- Chest pain, irregular heartbeat.
- High blood pressure.
- Weight gain or loss.
- Asthma or shortness of breath.
- Skin problems.
- Decreased sex drive.
Behavioral symptoms: How stress can affect your behavior
- Eating more or less.
- Sleeping too much or too little.
- Isolating yourself from others.
- Neglecting your responsibilities.
- Increasing alcohol and drug use.
- Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing).
- Teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
- Overdoing activities such as exercising or shopping.
- Losing your temper.
- Overreacting to unexpected problems.
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| Ways to Relieve Stress |
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A few ways you can change my lifestyle habits to manage stress better.
- Acupuncture
- Get enough sleep
- Connect with others
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Reduce caffeine and sugar
- Do not self-medicate with alcohol or drugs
- Bio-feedback
- Passive Muscle Relaxation
- Breathing Exercises
- Do something for yourself everyday
- Have realistic expectations: Know your limits.
- Maintain your sense of humor
- Express your feelings instead of bottling them up
- Do not try to control events or other people
- Ask yourself "Is this my problem?" If it isn't, leave it alone.
- Manage time
- Take a vacation: Even for a moment to close your eyes and imagine a place where you feel relaxed and comfortable.
- Take a warm bath or shower
- Care for a pet
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| Supplement and Herbal Suggestions |
| Here are the ones that we use most often. They are safe, effective and non-addictive.
These are only some of the products used for anxiety/stress. For others feel free to contact our office at 727-938-9966. |
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I hope this information will be helpful. What I hope you take away is that if you are under chronic stress and can't get it under control, seek help. Stress can kill.
We have been successfully helping people eliminate the effects of stress since 1994. If we can help please call 727-938-9966. It can be life changing.
Sincerely,
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| Save $50.00 |
On initial evaluation. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or applied to any service other than the initial visit.
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| Offer Expires: October 31, 2008 | |
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