| What is stress? |
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| Written by admin |
| Monday, 22 September 2008 13:46 |
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Sometimes there is truth in the comments that people are making about you. Different personalities react in different ways to being organized and worrying about detail. Just because you are conscientious doesn't mean that you are stressed out. There are many tests that purport to measure personality. The Myer-Briggs, the most commonly used test in industry, has the dimensions sensing, feeling, judging, introversion etc. The most relevant characterization of stress and anxiety came from an American cardiologist, Milton Friedman who determined there were two personality types - Type A (uptight, driven) and Type B (calm, relaxed). The issue for Friedman was whether the Type A person was likely to be one of his prime candidates for cardiac surgery. No one wants to be THAT stressed. When you are frightened or stressed, your body pumps adrenaline or cortisol to prepare you to react effectively. The stimulus is called a stressor. The stressor is designed to activate your system to respond quickly. People respond differently to those factors that cause them stress. Some people are unable to handle financial difficulties while other people seem to be able to cope quite well with money worries. For some people the biggest stress occurs within their relationships. For others it is personal or family illness that makes them feel tired, worried and exhausted. Some people enjoy the positive benefits that stress produces. A small amount of tension for a short period of time can make us more productive and effective. The problem arises when the stress levels are high and they last for a long time. What are stress triggers? The stimulus that sets off your stress. Have you ever been in a situation where there have been extra demands placed on you to complete tasks perhaps with a short timeline? In these cases, a heightened level of tension can make you much more productive and efficient. So stress CAN have, in some situations, a beneficial effect. There are many words that we use when stress has become a danger to us. People tell me that they are burnt out or stressed out. They feel that they are less effective. Some people show physical symptoms of stress, for example, they might get rashes on their arms or neck. Some people show clinical symptoms like anxiety and irritability. Unfortunately very few people have been lucky enough to be taught practical and effective stress management strategies. In order to be able to reduce the stress in our lives, we need information and strategies. Both must have an evidence base so that we are reading accurate information and using well proven and effective strategies for stress management and reduction. About the Author: Dr Jeff, psychologist, provides stress therapy. Why put up with stress? Learn how to overcome stress. Click here for the free What is Stress by Dr Jeff. Don't let stress ruin your life for another minute. Get moving - learn how to relieve stress. This and other unique content 'stress' articles are available with free reprint rights. |