There is a difference between pressure and stress.
Pressure can be a positive and a motivating factor, and
small amounts of it can be essential in in our daily lives, as it can help us
achieve goals and perform well. However, when the pressure exceeds our ability
to cope, this becomes stress.
Stress is in fact a natural reaction to too much pressure.
It is the reaction to the state of arousal the body manifests in response to a
perceived threat.
There are number of different ways people are affected by
stress and what becomes stressful to one person can be a walk in the park for
another! The factors to consider include the person’s background and culture,
personality, skills and experience, health, other demands in and outside of
work.
Stress can cause changes in those experiencing it. In some
cases there are clear signs that people are experiencing stress and if these
can be identified early, action can be taken before the pressure becomes a
problem. It is important that everyone looks out for changes in a person's
behaviour.
However, in many cases the changes may only be noticeable to
the person subject to the stress and so it is also important to look at how you
are feeling and try to identify any potential issues you may have as early as
possible and take positive action to address them.
Over a long period symptoms of stress can develop into hypertension,
heart disease, skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis, metabolic
issues, irritable bowel syndrome, impaired capacity to repair ulcers, depression
or even post-traumatic stress disorder. These are serious health issues.
Stress can show itself in many different ways. The
immediate physical reactions to stress may be;
- Sweating
- Breathlessness
- increased
blood pressure
- insomnia
- diarrhoea
- palpitations
Mental chances can include for instance anxious and negative
thoughts and low levels of energy.
