Various different factors in our life can produce stress. You may be worrying about your job, finances, moving house or a relationship. Perhaps you are about to sit your exams and need to get good grades for that much-wanted place at University.



Do you suffer from stress overload which is caused when you encounter too much stress or do you have the correct levels of stress?

Some of the questions you must ask yourself are:-

Do you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks? During these attacks the brain releases adrenaline which makes your heart beat faster causing a rapid heartbeat or palpitations.

Do you have a feeling of being constantly pressured, hassled, and hurried?

Do you find yourself snapping at family and friends or getting angry if somebody says something that you do not agree with?

Do you find yourself rushing to the toilet more frequently or experiencing other physical symptoms such as stomach problems, headaches or even chest pains?

Have your allergic reactions increased; have your asthma attacks or eczema got worse?

Do you find it more difficult to fall asleep or are you waking frequently in the night?

Are you drinking more alcohol than usual, smoking more or eating more?

These are all the classic symptoms off too much stress. If you do not manage your stress the symptoms can go beyond your control and you may then need to seek medical advice.

In order to avoid stress overload you need to try to keep your stress levels under control. Here are some tips that may help:-

*You are not superhuman; you cannot do everything. Establish the things that you can do and what can be put off until a later date. If you need help, ask for it.

*Be more assertive. Do not take on any additional work, stand up for yourself and tell your boss if are already overworked.

*Talk to your family or friends. If you have something that is bothering you talking about it will help to alleviate the stress. I was always told that a problem shared was a problem halved. Maybe that problem is not as bad as you first thought.

*Relax more. Wind down in the evening with some light music and maybe a glass of wine or relax in a nice warm bubble bath.

*Get a good night sleep. Switch off the television and curl up under your duvet.

You have the ability to control your stress. Think about what causes it and what you can do to alleviate it.