Identify your Stress Triggers

Stress is the body’s reaction to emotional or mental trauma. Most of us have become so accustomed to stress that we pay no heed to its adverse effect on our physical health.

In his paper published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Peggy A. Thoits (professor at Indiana University) stated that stressors such as trauma, negative events and chronic strains have a damaging impact on our physical and mental health. The best way to deal with stress is to pay attention to the situations, feelings and thoughts that make you feel stressed.

Major Stress Triggers

Stress is an unavoidable part of our life. Our busy work schedules and demanding lifestyle often leave us stressed. Stress is usually triggered when you are nearing deadline and still struggling with work.

Financial problems and ill health of a family member can also contribute to the stress. However, the stress contributing factor for every individual are different. So it is important to identify that you are under stress and know the reasons behind.

Know your Stressors

Keep a note of your stress triggers and how your body responds to them. You can keep a stress awareness journal. By doing so you will be able to cope with stressors in an effective manner.

• Note down all the things that makes you feel stressed. Make sure that you include each and every thing that is troubling you. For instance, a traffic jam.
• Include the details of all stressors. If the problem is related to your job then don't just write work. Instead be specific. Is it your schedule, your boss or any other particular thing that is bothering you?
• After practicing this exercise for a week you will have a clear idea about the things that are troubling you.

Evaluate Yourself

Understand how your body responds to stress. When we are under stress our body starts sending us signals. When a person is stressed digestion is affected, breathing appears difficult, the heart beats rapidly and the person begins to sweat.

Certain amount of stress is part of routine life. If you are not able to cope with day to day stressors then it is time to change. People who are flexible in their approach towards life can deal with their emotions in a better way.

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