Work or Home related Stress and Anxiety
The theory of work/life balance is practical and sensible but putting it into practice can be difficult. It needs determination and discipline. There is no perfect solution but if it isn’t achieved it can lead to work or home related stress and anxiety
Work related stress
Work related stress is the process that arises when work demands of various types exceed an individual’s capacity and capability to cope. It is a significant cause of illness
Home related stress
Everyone experiences home related stress sometime in their life. It is part of the human condition. Stress is derived not from an external problem but from the way an individual copes with their problem. Too much stress is not only disruptive, it’s a killer and the symptoms of stress can be physical, emotional or manifest in behavioural reactions
Symptoms of Stress
Some of the following symptoms may indicate that you are feeling the effects of stress. Action taken at an early stage will ease the stress and reduce or stop the symptoms
| Symptoms | Mental | Behavioural |
|---|---|---|
| Increased heart rate, high blood pressure | Difficulty concentrating | Avoidance of anxiety |
| Hyperventilation | Difficulty in making decisions | Social withdrawal |
| Dizziness, tingling sensations, shakes, | Impaired memory – forgetfulness | Excessive drinking, smoking, drug taking |
| Migraine | Increased negative self-critical thoughts | Difficulty sleeping/early waking |
| Stomach ulcers, nausea | Distorted, irrational ideas | Accident-proneness |
| Frequent urination, diarrhoea | Catastrophic thinking (worrying) | Increased aggression/irritation |
| Asthma, skin rashes, cancers | Alteration in food intake | |
| Loss of sexual interest |
NB These are some of the indicators experienced by those with stress. They may also be indicative of other conditions. If you are concerned about yourself please seek advice from your GP or a counsellor
Self-help techniques
Self help skills include relaxation, distraction techniques, positive and rational thinking, breathing control, time management, anger management, goal setting and possible changes in lifestyle. All or some of these may serve to minimize the experience of anxiety. However take care not to over-react to small changes in behaviour. These symptoms are only clues
