FACTS

• Positive stress, called eustress, can motivate and improve performance: Eustress provides a healthy level of excitement and challenge that stimulates us to perform at our best. It can enhance focus, increase productivity, and give us the drive we need to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

• Chronic stress can impair memory and cognitive function: When stress becomes chronic, it can disrupt the brain's ability to encode and retrieve memories. The constant release of stress hormones can interfere with the formation of new memories and make it difficult to concentrate and think clearly.

• Stress responses vary among individuals based on personality and experiences: Each person has a unique way of perceiving and reacting to stress. Factors such as genetic predispositions, upbringing, and past experiences shape our individual stress responses.

• Prolonged stress can negatively impact physical health: The effects of long-term stress on the body can be detrimental. Elevated levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses and infections

• Stress can be contagious in social situations, affecting others' stress levels: Human beings are wired to pick up on and mirror the emotions of those around them. When we witness someone else experiencing stress, it can trigger a stress response within ourselves.

CAUSES

• Work-related stress: The demands and pressures of work can be a significant source of stress. Factors such as heavy workload, tight deadlines, conflicts with colleagues or superiors, lack of job security, or insufficient control over one's work can all contribute to stress in the workplace.

• Financial stress: Money-related issues, such as financial instability, debt, or the inability to meet financial obligations, can lead to significant stress. Worries about bills, expenses, job security, or the ability to provide for oneself and family can cause considerable distress.

• Relationship stress: Problems in relationships, whether with a spouse or partner, family members, or friends, can be a significant source of stress. Conflicts, misunderstandings, lack of communication, or feelings of loneliness and isolation can all contribute to stress in relationships.

• Major life changes: Significant life events, even positive ones, can bring about stress. Events like getting married, starting a new job, moving to a different city, or having a baby can all introduce a certain level of stress due to the adjustments and uncertainties they entail.

• Health-related stress: Health issues, whether personal or concerning a loved one, can be extremely stressful. Dealing with a chronic illness, injury, or undergoing medical procedures can lead to significant stress. Concerns about one's own health or the health of a family member can also cause considerable distress.

SYMPTOMS

• Physical Symptoms: Stress can affect the body, leading to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, upset stomach, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty sleeping.

• Emotional Symptoms: Stress can impact our emotions and lead to feelings of irritability, restlessness, anxiety, mood swings, sadness, or a sense of being overwhelmed. It may also contribute to a decreased ability to concentrate or make decisions.

• Behavioral Symptoms: Stress can influence our behavior, causing changes such as increased or decreased appetite, changes in sleep patterns, social withdrawal, procrastination, nervous habits (e.g., nail biting, pacing), or substance abuse.

• Cognitive Symptoms: Stress can affect our thinking processes, resulting in racing thoughts, constant worrying, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and a negative outlook on life.

• Relationship Symptoms: Chronic stress can strain relationships, leading to increased conflicts, decreased patience, isolation, or a lack of interest in social activities.

THERAPY USED

• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction: Uses mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing to promote present moment awareness.

• Relaxation Techniques: Includes progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and breathing exercises to induce relaxation.

• Stress Inoculation Training: Develops resilience and coping strategies through problem-solving, assertiveness, and self-care skills.

• Supportive Counselling: Provides a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and concerns, offering empathy, validation, and guidance.

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Identifies and changes negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to stress

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Encourages acceptance of stressors and focuses on mindfulness, values clarification, and taking committed actions.