Stress Theory

Stress: this is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances. The origin of stress can differ from person to person .the main origins originate from: lack control, uncertainty, frustration, conflict and change A physician and Endocrinologist, Hans Hugo Bruno Selye in his 2nd year of medical school started working on his theory of stress. The iconic theory which is linked to his studies of stress condition is known as The General Adaption syndrome (GAS), which he started in 1936. GAS focuses on how the body responds and adapts to stress through 3 different phases

The Alarm Stage

In this stage the body recognizes the stressor as a threat and danger, during this process the body

On the physiological side stress can cause: Headaches, upset stomachs such as diarrhea and constipation, sweaty palms, tense muscles along with aches and pains, low energy, insomnia, an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, Chest pains, clenching jaws and grinding teeth, nervousness and shaking, and lastly dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. Whereas on the psychological side stress causes: agitation, frustration, mood swings , a feeling of being overwhelmed, finding it difficult to relax and quieting your mind, loneliness, worthlessness , low self-esteem and feeling depressed

Stress Therapy

When stress leads to drug abuse, chronic physical ailments or pain, it is suggested that patient seek therapy. In the process of the therapy therapist focus on three main areas that the stress attacks: the mind, the body and the emotions.

The body- activities that relive stress with be: deep bathing, long baths, exercise and dancing

The mind- procedures such as, reality checking of negative thoughts, advanced planning, learning from mistakes, focusing on positives and meditation should be taken into

Things such as physically activity can bring you to the right state of mind. This is done as exercise decreases emotional intensity and clears thoughts. It aims at focusing the mind on the problem in a more calm and relaxed way. This process won’t make stress disappear it will merely reduce stress. Another process to conquering stress is to take control, what is meant by this is to have a right mind set which enables you to empower yourself. One of the causes of stress is the feeling of loss of control by having the right mind set and believing you can overcome stress can help you gain a sense of control. A big issue with stress is keeping your thoughts to yourself. It is best to have a support group or friends and family: who will help you cope with stress, as well as giving you suggestions from a different perspective. Talking problems through can enable you to find a solution just as it is a stress reliever. It is also important when coping with stress to have some personal time. Things such as exercise, relaxation and socializing fall under this category. It is important to set aside some time to spend doing things you enjoy. Avoid alcohol, smoking and caffeine as a resolution. Alcohol is a temporary and unhealthy issue, it may help relieve stress for a while but later causes numerous of issues. A minor solution to reliving stress is to participate in volunteering or community work: helping