PsychWorks, Inc. provides an integrated approach to behavioral healthcare.
Shrink Raps
This page will highlight frequently asked questions on a particular
subject, it will change quite often, so stop by now and then.
STRESS FAQ's
Q: What is stress?
 | A: Stress is the body’s natural response
to demands. It is usually felt as an urgency or tension. Three common types of
stress are:
- ordinary: waking up, getting to work
- developmental: learning new things, taking on new challenges
- unique: illness, family changes
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Q: Is it always bad?
| A: Stress can take the form of extra momentum
and actually improve your performance at work or at home. Stress often signals
the release of hormones -- adrenaline and hydrocortisone -- that tap your hidden
energy reserves. "Positive stress" feels exciting and helps you meet
your challenges.
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Q: What is negative stress?
| A: Stress is most commonly perceived as
negative, and thus is called "distress". Positive stress becomes
negative when a challenge become long term. "Negative stress" drains
your energy when dealing with job-related problems, financial woes, or the death
of a loved one.
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Q: What causes stress?
| A: Many circumstances at home, at work, or in
the environment can cause stress. Stress often stems from facing too much
responsibility or information; dealing with too many changes; and being
overloaded emotionally. The more stresses within a short time, the greater the
effect.
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Q: What are the symptoms?
| A: Physical: tightened muscles, rising blood
pressure, grinding teeth, clenched jaws, sleeplessness, clammy hands,
perspiration, upset stomach, fatigue. Emotional: anxiety, nervousness,
agitation, irritability, depressions, restlessness, nightmares, confusion and
drug abuse.
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Q: Can stress make me sick?
| A: Your response to stress can make you sick. a
majority of diseases are either related to or worsened by stress. Stress can
increase blood cholesterol and stomach acid. It is also linked to ulcers,
colitis, high blood pressure, strokes, heart problems, migraine headaches,
asthma, and skin disorders. |
Q: How can I mange stress?
| A: To manage stress, start a "stress audit":
- Keep a journal to record your stresses.
- Identify problems.
- List all possible ways to overcome them.
- Choose your solutions.
- Later, evaluate what worked and what can be improved
- If stress overwhelms you, seek help from a professional.
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