$Unique_ID{BRK00680}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{On Successfully Dealing With Stress}
$Subject{stress tension coping Mental Emotional Conditions condition behavior
behaviors lifestyle lifestyles stressers stresses positive negative
hypertension high blood pressure ulcers ulcer insomnia sexual problems}
$Volume{E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


On Successfully Dealing With Stress


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Can you supply a bit more help on the matter of successfully
dealing with stress?  I can't seem to get a handle on it, and am sure a few
suggestions from you might help.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Stress must be sweeping the nation for your letter was the fourth in
a row to question about the same subject.  Let me try to provide some
"handles".  Stress can be caused by both positive and negative things in one's
life.  A little stress is not unhealthy, but too much stress and tension can
cause serious illnesses, headaches, hostility, or emotional disorders.
Dealing with stress and knowing how to spot the things that cause it (they are
called stressors) are extremely important.
     People who are stress survivors stay healthy through the worst of times.
They consider stressful situations opportunities for growth.  On the negative
side, such situations can include the loss of a job, children who misbehave,
money problems, not enough time with loved ones, lack of shared family
responsibility, and dozens of other things.  Positive stressors may include a
job promotion, having a baby, getting married, etc.  Our bodies deal with both
positive and negative stressors in the same way.  Research has proven that
extreme tension without an outlet may be the cause of 50 to 80% of all
disease, including high blood pressure, ulcers, insomnia, and sexual problems.
     In order to cope with stress, one must work to develop a positive
attitude--an attitude that you are in control of your life and not a victim.
     To arm yourself against stress overload, develop your own relaxation
techniques.  They can be relatively simple--deep breathing, a good night's
sleep, or lying down and visualizing a pleasant atmosphere, such as a beach or
a forest.  A jog or brisk walk with a headset playing march music can do it
for me.
     When under stress, many people give themselves additional tension through
negative thinking, including self-blame and feelings of inadequacy.
     Stop and think whether these thoughts are rational and stop setting up
unrealistic expectations.
     A well-balanced diet will really help your body to cope with stress and
can guard against illnesses that can be triggered by tension.
     Coping well under stress may mean seeking help.  A doctor, minister, or
mental health professional can help, but often, just talking to friends,
relatives and trusted co-workers can do much to reduce stress.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.