Stress Management Strategies

Stress is a physical and psychological response to a situation that seems overwhelming. Some stress is good as it can motivate and help us become more productive. However, too much stress or prolonged exposure to stress is harmful. The way we perceive a stress-provoking event and react to it determines its impact on our health. Over time, high levels of stress can lead to serious health problems. This is why stress management strategies are very important in eliminating the negative impacts of stress on health and wellness. This paper will focus on stress in-depth, strategies to manage stress, and how the stress relates to personal and professional lives. Some stress is normal and even useful in certain situations. However, when stress …show more content…
There are many ways to tell if someone is under stress, but the best way is to measure a number of hormones in humans. Hannibal and Bishop (2014) mentioned a hormone known as cortisol, is a key player in the stress response. Cortisol releases as a response to a stressful situation; excessive and prolonged cortisol level may have negative effects, both physically and psychologically (Hannibal & Bishop, 2014). The amount of stress is directly correlated with cortisol levels, which is indirectly correlated with the amount of epinephrine and norepinephrine. Each of these hormones depend on the sympathetic nervous system to trigger a chain of physiological effects and help the body react or adapt to the situation. According to Lamberton and Minor (2014), Hanes Selye, who pioneered research on the different type of stress, discovered a theory the General Adaptation Syndrome, has come to known as the fight-or-flight response. When the body feels threatened by external stimuli, it activates the sympathetic nervous system that is responsible for the fight-or-flight …show more content…
Everyone feels and responds to stress differently and there are many strategies people can use to manage stress. According to Lamberton and Minor (2014) in order to reduce stress, individuals should change their behavior or personality to a healthier, fit, and less stress-producing style. They should use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga as a way to clear the mind and calm the body. Increase fitness and wellness by eating well, exercising regularly, and sleeping properly are additional methods for managing stress (Lamberton & Minor, 2014). A person who is physically fit will have the least negative effects of stress on the body. Exercising regularly will help boost epinephrine levels, therefore reducing cortisol secretions and stress. Having a positive mindset and a strong immune system will fight against the stress-related illness, therefore improve overall wellness. Thinking positive, increasing sense of humor, controlling life, taking charge, and confronting the stressors in a thoughtful and assertive way are some initial steps toward reducing stress (Lamberton & Minor, 2014). People cannot totally eliminate stress from their lives, but they can learn to manage and confront the stressors as much as