STOP STRESSING START LIVING
Jharna Pandya
Indoco Remedies Ltd Mumbai
jharnapandya@gmail.com
What is Stress?
OVERLOAD – is probably one of the most
appropriate descriptions of what it means
to be “stressed”. Too much to do, in too
little time, with too little support.
Stress is the response that occurs when
the body responds to challenges or
difficult situations known as stressors.
This response entails a release of
chemicals known as stress hormones, that
provide the energy and strength required
to cope with the situation at hand. These
chemicals are necessary and useful in the
face of physical danger, and enhance an
individuals' ability to perform well under
pressure, for example examinations,
competitions etc. Small doses of “good
stress” can help to keep you on your toes
and heighten performance.
However, the chemicals released can be
toxic if it is in response to an emotional
pressure or if it continues for a prolonged
period of time, as there is usually no
outlet for it. These long-term situations
with a low baseline of underlying stress is
the type that takes its' toll. The body's
defences remain activated and continue
to release these chemicals over a
prolonged period, resulting in the body's
reserves being worn away, the immune
system becoming weakened over time and
Research Journal SANSMARAN Vol. 3 No. 1- June 2013
an individual is left depleted,
overwhelmed and prone to illness.
Thus it is very important to manage stress.
Stress Management is simply
acknowledging that certain things in our
life have become far too overwhelming,
recognizing the stressors that are causing
this overwhelm, and finding creative,
realistic and sustainable ways of either
eliminating the stressors completely, or
managing the stress that arises
appropriately and effectively so that you
are not sacrificed in the process.
Chronic stress has very real and very
dangerous health consequences, and
needs to be addressed like any other
health concern.
While some workplace stress is normal,
excessive stress can interfere with your
productivity and impact your physical and
emotional health. And your ability to deal
with it can mean the difference between
success or failure. We can't control
everything in our work environment, but
that doesn't mean we are powerless—even
when we are stuck in a difficult situation.
Finding ways to manage workplace stress
isn't about making huge changes or
rethinking career ambitions, but rather
about focusing on the one thing that's
always within our control.
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