STRESS –THE MODERN KILLER
Millions of people in the world suffer from stress-related depression.
Stress is the reaction of mind and body to something that upsets the normality. It is the inability to cope with the demands of life.
Marriage, divorce, change of job, bereavement, loneliness — are all forms of stressful situations.
Stress is not bad or dangerous. It is a part of the wear and tear of life and can, in fact, change the way you live if handled properly in a balanced way. Help is always in your own hands.
The stress affects the whole person — body, mind, feelings, and behaviour — and so symptoms can take many forms.
The effects of stress are not only due to the amount of stress you experience but also to how good your defences are.
The first step is to recognize symptoms of stress, and the next step is to identify the cause of stress.
Identifying the cause of depression is the first step in overcoming it. Confront the cause and treat each problem separately — they will begin to appear less overwhelming.
At work, don’t accept unrealistic demands. Always delegate work and set realistic goals. Learn time management and take regular exercise, as activity reduces tension.
It is good to talk. Admitting you are unable to handle the problem alone may be difficult, but involving another person or a support group may be helpful. Discuss your grievances rather than bottling them up.
Tips to Manage Stress and Improve Well-being:
Relaxation techniques, regular exercises like aerobics and yoga help relax both mind and body.
Regular meditation is useful. Begin by sitting in a comfortable position, with your back straight and eyes closed. Choose a word such as “Aum” and repeat it silently to yourself.
A diet of whole grains, lean meat, fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and vitamin B-complex and selenium helps. Take plenty of carbohydrates.
Make sure you get proper sleep. Set up a regular sleep–eat–work pattern.
Quit smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. Reduce weight and walk briskly every day for at least 30 minutes.
Exercise regimes like playing a sport should be started under proper guidance.
Do not overexert.