Stress @ work

I was reading a very interesting blog post about Stress @ work. I know that nowadays this is an unavoidable fact of life but it can affect your body, thoughts and feelings if its not dealt  on time. I really like this post because it gives a possible solution on how to reduce stress.

Accepting that you are stressed is not easy. Some people think that it can be seen as a sign of weakness and an inability to cope, and won’t readily admit to it. 
However, it's very important that you address the symptoms as soon as possible — and in order to do this you need to recognise the signs.

Psychological symptoms

• Inability to concentrate or make simple decisions
• Memory lapses
• Becoming rather vague
• Easily distracted
• Less intuitive & creative
• Worrying
• Negative thinking
• Depression & anxiety

Emotional symptoms

• Tearful
• Mood Swings
• Extra sensitive to criticism
• Defensive
• Feeling out of control
• Lack of motivation
• Angry
• Frustrated
• Lack of confidence
• Lack of self-esteem

Physical signs

• Aches/pains & muscle tension/grinding teeth (Stiff neck)
• Frequent colds/infections
• Allergies/rashes/skin irritations
• Constipation/diarrhoea/ IBS
• Weight loss or gain
• Indigestion/heartburn/ulcers
• Hyperventilating/lump in the throat/pins & needles
• Dizziness/palpitations
• Panic attacks/nausea
• Physical tiredness
• Menstrual changes/loss of libido/sexual problems
• Heart problems/high blood pressure

Behavioural signs

• No time for relaxation or activities that you enjoy
• Prone to accidents, forgetfulness
• Relying on alcohol, smoking, caffeine, recreational or illegal drugs
• Becoming a workaholic
• Poor time management and/or poor standards of work
• Absenteeism
• Self neglect or change in appearance
• Social withdrawal
• Relationship struggles
• Insomnia or waking tired
• Reckless
• Aggressive/anger outbursts

Reducing the strength of these symptoms is usually a more viable option than eliminating them entirely. The good news is that once that you've identified the triggers, there is so much you can do! (exercise, meditation, counselling, etc.) 
Remember, pressure at work can be good sometimes. Stress is definitely NOT.