We all face stress in our lives on a daily basis. Whether it is because of sports, homework, projects, tests, finals, or you are waiting to see how your favorite television show continues in the upcoming week. Some things make us feel more stress than others, but nonetheless stress is not a good feeling at it.

What exactly is stress?

According to dictionary.com, stress is “a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances.” Other sources have defined stress as “a normal physical response to events that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way.”

Why does stress occur?

Stress is the result of our nervous system responding to a threat.

Is stress a big deal?

Although people say that stress is good, which is true in small increments, it can be extremely harmful and dangerous when one is on a stress overload. Though many people think stress is just a mental thing, it can be very physical as well.

Effects of stress on the mind:

These include, but not limited to: memory problems, poor judgment, constant worrying, anxious feelings, being sad and focusing on negative things, and an inability to concentrate.

Effects of stress on the body:

These include: dizziness, chest pains, rapid heartbeat, aches and pains, and nausea.

Effects of stress behaviorally:

Eating less, eating more, isolation, experiencing nervous habits, loss of motivation, and neglecting responsibilities.

Effects of stress emotionally:

Feelings of depression, irritability, feeling overwhelmed, moodiness, and a feeling of loneliness or isolation.

As seen above, stress is a big deal that can affect you in all aspects of your life. But how can you avoid a stress overload?

• Prepare for the things that stress you out. Preparation tends to make one feel more at ease and confident.
• Manage your time wisely. Make a schedule of when something is, or is due and figure out how you will be ready for it when the time comes. Even if it is far away, it’s never too early to start getting ready for it.
• Take breaks. If you have a five hour project due the next day, you’re actually hurting yourself by trying to do it with no breaks, even if the break is only a few minutes. In those few minutes your hands can relax and your brain can take a minute to calm down as well.
• Talk to people about it. Normally you are not the only one that is effected by stress for something. Talk it out with others who are dealing with that same thing. Don’t let the stress bottle up inside of you. Convey your thoughts and feelings to others.
• Don’t overcomplicate things. Too often, we make things too complicated and that leads to stress. Know what you need to do to be successful and do it. It is really that simple.
• Drama is a big source of stress. Try to avoid it in any situation you can.

Stress is a bigger deal than we tend to think. It is much more that an uneasy nervous feeling, and can lead to harmful effects if you don’t properly handle it. Do your best to limit your stress and remember it is always okay to relax, it’s beneficial to your health!