Part 1 of Stress Management: Self-awareness

Stress is your system’s (mind, body and behavioral) response to demands placed on it. Awareness of how your system responds to challenging situations is important for better stress management. It is also important to note that we respond differently to demands placed on us, so stress is a natural and sometimes a learned response at what life throws at us.

1. Mind response

We respond with thoughts, interpretations and emotions to stress. Sometimes the mind goes blank and almost blocked in stressful situations, with an experience of numbness resulting in indecision and inability to think clearly. Some people become irritable, sad and frustrated when faced with stressful situations.

2. Body response

Your body can also indicate when your stress levels are high. You may experience headaches, tiredness, dry skin or pimple breakouts. Worsening of existing physical illnesses can sometimes be linked to increased stress levels.

3. Behavioral response

Your behavior sometimes indicates when you are stressed. You may experience a change in your habits:eating more than you would prefer, eating more junk food and more chocolate than you would, drinking more alcohol than usual and smoking more cigarettes. You may also lose interest in activities that you used to enjoy and find yourself more withdrawn and isolated.

4. Know your stress response

Ask yourself this question: Which changes in your mind, body and behavior signal a stress response? You can also ask your loved ones to provide their input. Self-awareness is a starting point for better stress management.

In Part 2 of stress management we will explore ways of managing stress.

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Dr Sibu Qhogwana

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