Stress has no boundaries. Some time or another everyone experiences it. It is a part of daily life. Most people live a lifestyle at a medium level of stress. The more stressors you have in a short period of time, the more severe their effects. When confronted with danger the body responds with the release of adrenalin and hydrocortisone. Short term, these chemicals shut down some biological mechanisms in order to conserve energy which may be needed for the fight or flight response. Long term adrenalin and hydrocortisone can result in numerous negative influences physiologically, emotionally or psychologically. One of these negative consequences is suppression of the immune system. If stress is handled positively it can lead to an increase in productivity and performance. Negative stress can cause emotional depression, can be harmful and drains energy, or can even change your way of thinking. Failure to effectively deal with stressful situations contribute to feelings of things being more difficult which adds to the stress already felt. An individual’s perception of stress will determine its effects on them. 

Difficulties leading to stress are often related to a person’s style of managing or interacting with their environment. For a person to effectively manage the stress they must understand what they need and want emotionally. Some attempt to do too much at one time or they are in the habit of doing it all themselves. They need to take responsibility for their own thoughts and behaviours. Negative expectations will increase anxiety. Self-talk has a similar influence on mental imagery. Positive mental images and positive self-talk encourage self-confidence and effective coping.

People need to release themselves from efforts to control others, be honest about what they must control and whatnot, have appropriate boundaries in relationships, be willing to express themselves honestly, develop realistic expectations and limitations of others and themselves. Selfcare is important, get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise regularly.

It is always helpful to develop goals or break up tasks into manageable steps, so it does not feel overwhelming. Talk about your problems to relieve stress. Take time to relax.

Believe it or not but your attitude will have a significant influence on how you feel and how you evaluate your experiences. An optimistic person is likely to expect a positive outcome even in difficult situations. The tendency to expect the worse is sometimes referred to as a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Realize that it’s possible to change the habit of negative thinking to positive thinking by becoming aware of your thinking patterns. Stop negative thinking cycles. Once you have identified your negative thoughts, you’re on the right track. Identify your fears. Deal with guilt. Take responsibility for yourself and your emotions. Deal with depression. Make the right choice to be grateful instead of negative. Positive affirmation can give you a daily kickstart. Live one day at a time and enjoy life. You only live once.