ARE YOU FIGHTING BACK?

Chronic stress is a serious health risk. It can lead to depression, decreased brain function and memory loss, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, depleted immune system, diabetes and other life-threatening health problems. However, studies show that some people seem to be more resistant to stress than others. They are less affected by stressful situations and are more resilient.

Try these ideas to fight stress:

1. Develop “flexible control” in your life. Know that you cannot control every detail of your life. You can only control your own reactions.

2. Have a strong commitment to yourself, your work and your family. This allows you to work through problems without being too disrupted by stress.

3. See change as a challenge. Change is inevitable. View change as a challenge instead of a threat, and avoid the stress associated with threats.

4. Participate in activities that promote creativity. Gardening, arts and crafts, writing, sewing–any activity that you enjoy–will reduce stress.

5. Have a strong network of support. Stay close to family and friends. If you believe you are alone in the world, the effects of everyday stress are much worse.

— Submitted by Dick Nichol