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Chicago Center for Anti-Aging

Understanding Stress PDF Print E-mail
What Is Stress?

Stress is the result of how you react to bad, unpleasant or even normal, everyday situations.  It can upset you mentally and emotionally.  Stress is a natural part of life, but it can affect your health by making your more irritable and depressed and increasing your heart rate, making your muscles tense and raising your blood pressure.

Can Stress Be Controlled?

Stress has two parts:

  • The event or situation that triggers stress, such as a demanding boss or a traffic jam.
  • Your response to the event or situation.

You can't always control the situation you're in, but you can control how you respond.  For example, Chris and Eva work in the same office, with the same tight deadlines and with the same demanding boss.  Chris responds to the stress by drinking more alcohol at night.  Eva responds by exercising during work breaks.

What Are The Physical Symptoms Of Stress?

  • Abdominal cramps
  • Chest pain
  • Cold feet and hands
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue
  • Flushing or sweating
  • Headaches
  • Heart palpitations
  • Nausea
  • Backache

What Are The Mental Symptoms Of Stress?

  • Confusion
  • Mind racing or going blank
  • Poor concentration
  • Poor memory
  • Indecisiveness

What Are The Emotional Symptoms Of Stress?

  • Anger
  • Depression
  • Frustration
  • Impatience
  • Irritability
  • Nervousness
  • Short temper
  • Worrying
  • Anxiety

Isn't Some Stress Good for You?

Yes.  Some stress can provide an incentive, motivating you to study hard before an exam or deliver a better presentation at work.  In fact, stress can be the spice of life — think of a thrilling roller coaster ride.  But while some stress can be helpful, too much can damage your physical, mental and emotional well-being.

 
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