I’ve resisted offering advice so far, for several reasons :-
• Not only is “ stress “ a common reason for attending the doctor, but many doctors themselves have stress. Even contributing to the forum can be stressful !
• It’s difficult to define – most agree stress is an adverse reaction to excessive ( or even too few ) pressures at work, home, or elsewhere.
• Stress affects people in different ways and what one person finds stressful can be normal to another. It depends on age and gender ; background and culture ; skills and experience ; personality and general health.
• There’s a huge number of internet articles – of variable quality.
However, if anyone regularly has more than a few of the following, they need to take it seriously, and do something about it, perhaps along the lines already suggested by other members :-
Memory problems
Inability to concentrate
Poor judgment
Seeing only the negative
Anxiety
Constant worrying Moodiness
Irritability or short temper
Agitation, inability to relax
Feeling overwhelmed
Sense of loneliness and isolation
Aches and pains
Nausea, dizziness
Chest pain, rapid heartbeat
Loss of sex drive
Frequent colds
Avoiding people / responsibilities
Excessive use of alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs ( prescription or illicit ).
Stress is a risk factor for various health problems :-
Heart disease / high blood pressure
Digestive problems
Sleep problems Depression
Obesity
Skin conditions like eczema
It can’t be ignored but ways to deal with it are an individual matter and may need a visit to the doctor.
