Stress is a state of tension that is created when a person responds to the demands and pressures that come from work, family and other external sources, as well as those that are internally generated from self imposed demands, obligations and self-criticism.

Stress is both additive and cumulative. It adds up over time until a state of crisis is reached and symptoms appear. These symptoms may manifest themselves psychologically as irritability, anxiety, impaired concentration, mental confusion, poor judgment, frustration and anger. They may appear as physical symptoms. Common physical symptoms of stress include: muscle tension, headaches, low back pain, insomnia and high blood pressure. Untreated, these symptoms may lead to physical illness and sometimes death.

Initially much attention was placed on the physical aspects of the mechanisms involved with fight or flight, specifically the symptoms of stress.

As this field of study expanded to explore the relationship between stress and disease, it began to overlap and to some extent, even merge with the fields of psychology, sociology, physics, and clinical medicine. From notes : What was once thought to be a physical response, and then referred to as a mind- body phenomenon, is now suggested to be a complex multifaceted or holistic phenomenon involving the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual components of well-being.

Effective stress management includes : 1.Knowledge of the body’s reaction to perceived stress. 2.Knowledge of mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual factors associated with stress. 3.The regular practice of relaxation techniques. 4.The periodic evaluation of effectiveness of your coping skills and relaxation techniques.

I cannot and should not be cured of my stress, but merely taught to enjoy it

.…Always fight for your highest attainable aim but never put up resistance in vain.…

Stress can also occur as the result of a more positive event such as getting married, moving to a new city, or starting a new job. It is not uncommon for either positive or negative events to become a crisis that precedes the development of clinical depression. Causes of Stress

Events such as the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, or the end of a relationship are often negative and traumatic and cause great stress for many people. Causes of Stress

Middle age may require adjustment to changes in fertility and virility, children leaving the home, concern about job advancement, and a re-evaluation of accomplishments in life.

some people develop depression after a stressful event in their lives.

In studying how stressful events may lead to depression, researchers have developed a theory called, "learned helplessness." This theory states that when people experience chronic or repeated stressful events, they learn to feel helpless. This feeling of helplessness is strengthened when a person believes he or she has no control over the stressful situation.

People who are depressed very often have negative beliefs about their ability to manage aspects of their lives based on perceived failures in the past.

Many of these diseases effects are Due to increased sympathetic nervous system activity and an outpouring of adrenaline, cortisol and other stress-related hormones. Certain types of chronic and more insidious stress due to loneliness, poverty, bereavement, depression and frustration due to discrimination are associated with impaired immune system resistance to viral linked disorders ranging from the common cold and herpes to AIDS and cancer. Stress can have effects on other hormones, brain neurotransmitters, additional small chemical messengers elsewhere, prostaglandins, as well as crucial enzyme systems, and metabolic activities that are still unknown. Stress and related Diseases

Holistic Approach to Stress Management The life of the practical is in the ideal. It is the ideal that has penetrated the whole of our lives even in our everyday duties of life. It is the ideal that has made us what we are, and will make us what we are going to be. It is the power of the ideal that has enshrouded us, and is felt in our joys or sorrows, in our great acts or mean doings, in our virtues and vices. – Swami Vivekananda

Ideally a wholesome life include the combination of : Sadhana Upasana Aradhana

Change of perspective towards life : Recognition of Divinity within Continuity of life – births and rebirths, Faith and devotion towards higher aspects of our existence

I give and receive affection regularly. Almost always Often Some times Rarely · Never Evaluation of Stress

I exercise to the point of perspiration at least once a week. Almost always Often Some times Rarely · Never Evaluation of Stress

I have one or more friends to confide in about personal matters. · Almost always Often Some times Rarely · Never Evaluation of Stress

I am able to speak openly about my feelings when angry or worried. · · Almost always Often Some times Rarely · Never Evaluation of Stress

I am the appropriate weight for my height. Almost Under weight Slightly overweight excessive Evaluation of Stress

I feel like I have enough time and money to satisfy my needs. Almost always Often Some times Rarely · Never Evaluation of Stress