Are You Under Stress?

Find out by taking the 60-Second Stress Test

Do you feel overwhelmed by everything you have to do?
Does your mind sometimes race – any you can’t seem to control it?
Do you feel irritable or upset?
Are your shoulders hunched, or your back or neck tense or painful?
Does your stomach feel like it’s in a knot or do you have heartburn?
Use the following stress scale, rate the amount of stress you are feeling right now:
Absolutely no stress
Maybe a little stress
Moderately stressed
Very stressed
Extremely stressed
When you are under a lot of stress, you typically react by:
Reaching for a cigarette
Hiding in the bathtub with a good book
Reaching for something to eat
Pouring yourself a good stiff drink – or two
Yelling at the next person who annoys you (e.g. parking lot attendant, sales clerk, waiter, your kids, the dog)
Go for a walk or a run

What Does it Mean?

Sometimes stress is good for us (it can spur us on to do more than we may think we can) but other times it can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope. Stress is an almost inescapable part of our hectic lives.

he key to successful stress management is reacting in a healthy manner. To do this, the Heart and Stroke Foundation suggests that you try the following :

Be physically active. Physical activity may relieve that "uptight" feeling, relax you and even energize you.
Share your feelings. Just talking to a friend or family member can help. If you feel your problem is serious, seek professional help from a psychologist, doctor or social worker. Knowing when to ask for help may avoid more serious problems later.
Take care of yourself. In trying to meet everyone else’s needs, don’t short-change yourself. Treat yourself to a luxurious bubble bath, a lunch with a close friend or a good book. Make time for your favorite activities or friends.
Do relaxation exercises. For example try imagining a peaceful, soothing scene, try stretching, meditating or deep breathing.
Lead a heart healthy lifestyle. The best defense against the harmful effects of stress it to lead a heart healthy lifestyle. Be smoke free. Eat a well balanced diet. Engage in regular physical activity.

(internet)