Have you been worried about something? Or experienced that sense of powerlessness for not having much or any control over the outcome of a situation? Or you may have had responsibilities that you are finding overwhelming, or the weariness that accompany anticipation for an expected outcome at a time of uncertainty. In all these, you have entertained the hallmark of our human condition which is termed Stress.

WHAT IS IT?
Stress is the response of the body to any demand for change such as physical, mental and emotional pressures.

TYPES OF STRESS
There are two main types of stress; acute stress and chronic stress. These describe the difference between the little stresses that we experience on a daily basis, and the more severe stress that can build up when you are exposed to a stressful situation over a longer period. However, depending on the situation. Positive stressors (called eustress) may include an upcoming wedding, the holidays, or pregnancy. On the other hand, negative stress (called distress) results in the full-blown stress response.

HOW BAD CAN IT GET?
Stress is key for survival, but too much stress can be detrimental. Sudden (episodic) or ongoing (intermittent)constraints activates your nervous system and floods your bloodstream with adrenaline and cortisol, two hormones that raise blood pressure, increase heart rate and spike blood sugar. These changes pitch your body into a fight or flight response which enabled our ancestors to outrun saber-toothed tigers, and it’s helpful today for situations like dodging a car accident. But most modern chronic stressors, such as finances or a challenging relationship, keep your body in that heightened state, which hurts your health. Emotional stress that stays around for weeks or months can weaken the immune system and cause high blood pressure, fatigue, depression, anxiety and even heart disease. In particular, too much adrenaline can be harmful to your heart.

The top four sources of stress are:
Money.
Work.
Family responsibilities.
Health Concerns.

WHAT CAUSES STRESS (STRESSORS)?
The top two stressors guaranteed to make Nigerians feel stressed is Money and relationships. Our world actually revolves around money and without it everything is impossible. How to save money, where to spend it, retirement plans, daily needs, dealing with all these can cause anxiety and stress. Money related stress is not easy to fix. You need to keep a track of your spending and if you are too stressed about it then practice meditation. However, the place of healthy nutrition in the management of stress cannot be overemphasized for we are the masters of our fates.

STRESS MANAGEMENT: involves a wide array of psychotherapies, methods and even equipment used to reduce a person’s levels of stress. According to Mayo clinic’s 4 A’s a person can AVOID,  ALTER, ACCEPT or ADAPT to the stressors in their life
To AVOID-Try saying no, set boundaries and yes discard those items on your to do list that’s’ cause for concern. The heavens will not fall down surely!
To ALTER-set and communicate your limits, feelings and time to others. Ask others to change their behaviors
To ACCEPT-Open up to a loved one, forgive, practice positive affirmations and learn from your mistakes
To ADAPT-change standards (no one is perfect)consider the other person’s point of view, stop negative thinking, adopt a mantra and look at the big picture. for More tips on how to manage stress, read our previous post on stress