How do we define stress scientifically?
According to Selye(1978), stress is defined as the ‘rate of wear and tear in the human body which accompany any vital capacity.’ Big sounding you will say! It is by other definitions, any condition which places the organism under great strains. It results as a response to physiological and environmental changes which may have mental, physical, emotional, psychological and even spiritual consequences.
What are the causes of stress?
Virtually anything and everything!! Too much money, too little money. Too much comfort, too little comfort! Too many politicians, too few politicians!!
Common identifiable causes, however, include
– Dissatisfaction at work
– Dissatisfaction at home
– Unease with colleagues and friends
– Working excessively to make both ends meet
– Poor time management
– Inadequate remuneration resulting in inability to meet family obligations
– Underlying medical problems with resultant uncertainty about the future
What are the behavioural indications of a person undergoing stress?
– Inappropriate shouting in normal conversation
– Fast talking and missing out of words
– Persons always in a hurry
– Getting angry when waiting in queues- How Nigerian!1
– Constantly striving for material gains
– Wanting to perform many tasks at the same time
– Finding fault with others
– Impatience in listening to others
– Aggressive postures like pounding tables
How does stress manifest?
– Unnecessary anxiety
– Poor sleep pattern
– Lack of concentration
– Forgetfulness
– Restlessness
– Headache
– Loss of appetite
– Indigestion
– Irritable bowel
– Ulcer
– Back pain, joint pains
– Hypertension
– Heart problem
– Weight loss
– Depression
– Loss of libido
How is stress treated?
– You must recognise you have stress
– Take a vacation
– Have adequate rest and sleep
– Share your feelings, anxieties and problems with trusted persons
– Consult a psychologist, psychiatrist
– Have a balanced diet
– Laugh at yourself and situations
– Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and other stimulants
– Have faith in God
