Stress

An almost omnipresent topic these days. What are its causes? How does stress manifest itself? And most importantly, how can we manage our stress?

First of all, what is stress? Stress is the human body's reaction to a phase of tension. This is not necessarily a negative thing. In principle, we differentiate between eustress (= "good stress"), which gives us more focus and performance in certain situations, and distress (= "bad stress"), which is caused by a state of permanent overload of any kind. The body therefore needs an outlet, a way to reduce the accumulated stress in order to be able to function in the long term. Otherwise, stress can lead to serious illnesses. These include various mental illnesses, chronic fatigue syndrome and the unfortunately all-too-familiar burnout.

How can you tell if you are suffering from stress?

As differently as everyone perceives stress, its symptoms can manifest themselves in many different ways. Typical symptoms include a lack of concentration, a drop in performance and headaches. Many sufferers also complain of loss of appetite, loss of libido, indigestion, abdominal pain and general irritability. In severe cases, even diseases of the cardiovascular system can occur.

There is virtually no escape from our modern, internet-connected society, as we are constantly connected to other people via (social) media.

What to do about stress?

1. Exercise is a key factor here. Regular walks in the fresh air, in a forest or a park can work wonders. In addition, a sufficient amount of exercise is also healthy for the body itself.
2. Make sure you take regular breaks from work. This will increase your overall work performance and improve your mental health.
3. Actively relax! There is absolutely nothing wrong with simply switching off and doing nothing. If you deprive your body of rest for too long, it will forcefully take it back through illness.
4. Plenty of good quality sleep has countless benefits for body and mind. Make sure you get 7 - 9 hours a day.
5. Have realistic expectations of everything in life, whether at work or at home, so that nothing can throw you off track so quickly.
6. However, nothing speaks against a positive attitude and healthy optimism
7. Laughter is the best medicine! It sounds like a platitude, but it's true: a genuine smile reduces stress, releases happiness hormones and is therefore good for your mental health.