Stress is "the non-specific response of the body to any demand". Hans Selye, MD Stress can affect us in many different ways. A certain level of stress is beneficial as it stimulates us to perform well, however too much stress can cause unpleasant effects and impair performance. When the demands outweigh your ability to cope with the situation stress starts to have negative effects. Everyone responds differently to stress, some may experience anxiety or panic attacks, some may become irritable, others may develop physical symptoms for example headaches, digestive problems or skin problems. When you find yourself in a situation that you find stressful your body prepares you for action, this is the ‘fight or flight’ response where adrenaline and noradrenaline are produced causing raised heart and respiration rate and increased blood flow to the muscles. The digestive system activity is reduced and hormones are released that suppress the immune system. For our ancestors this stressful situation may have been an encounter with a wild animal and our survival would have depended on us fighting it or running away from it. In modern day these stressors are more subtle and we are not always aware of the stress, they may be life events [e.g. bereavement or marital breakdown] or work situations. At work we are not able to fight or run away from our boss. However the ‘fight or flight’ response can still be triggered and if there are prolonged periods of stress with the immune system suppressed this can result in exhaustion or illness. How can stress cause illness? Directly - by reducing the body’s ability to fight illness Indirectly – by leading the stressed individual to adopt an unhealthy lifestyle [e.g. increased smoking and drinking ] It is important to remember that any stress you experience is a result of your interpretation of the event and its demands also your capabilities to cope. What may seem stressful to one person may be relaxing for another for example sailing, driving long distances or taking the dog for a walk. Possible Effects Of Stress: PHYSICAL • Headaches or migraines • Digestive problems • Skin problems • Palpitations or butterflies in the stomach • Rapid or irregular breathing • Trembling • Muscle aches • Fatigue / dizzy spells • High blood pressure • Tightness in chest EMOTIONAL • Feeling unable to cope /loss of control • Irritable or easily angered • Feeling low • Feeling restless • Difficulty relaxing • Memory loss / difficulty concentrating • Feeling anxious • Feelings of panic • Frequent crying • Illogical fears or worries BEHAVIOURAL • Increased smoking, alcohol, medication • Over / under eating • Finger / foot tapping • Nail biting • Sleep problems • Aggressive / passive behaviour • Clenched fists or jaws • Grinding teeth • Muscle twitches • Checking rituals If you have been suffering from several of the above on a frequent basis over the last two months it is likely that you are suffering from stress. This means it is time to review your life style and take steps to reduce your stress. If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms it is advisable to get them checked out by your doctor. During sessions, hypnotherapy, NLP, Emotional Freedom Technique and life coaching may be used. You will be shown relaxation techniques and taught self hypnosis. We will look at where the stresses in your life come from and ways to address them. We can look at your life style and other ways of creating a more relaxed life. For further information please contact: Jane Saunders Tel. 01462 638499 mobile 07817 256 366 info@js-hypnotherapy.co.uk