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Stress !
the silent killer |
How you can identify and avoid the health pitfalls that threaten high-stressed adults of all occupations. If the balance sheets of most companies had any resemblance to the health charts of their employees, then business failures would be at record numbers.
Headaches, neck pain, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal complaints, insomnia, panic attacks, irritability—it’s a showcase of health issues, yet the trend is persisting despite widening awareness of the situation.
Striking a balance between personal wellbeing and work is particularly difficult for many employees and executives, given today's demands of workplace life. Finding the time to take on stress management is simply another to-do item on a growing list of priorities. Many people find this an overbearing focal point and keep on deferring their stress managment as a personal project that they will get to-"someday".
This is exactly the type of thinking that allows stress to build, often going unchecked until red flags are thrown at the Doctor's office. The routine physical is where many stress candidates find out that their vitals are off the charts. Blood pressure readings are a key indication stress is present. A spike in BP can be the early distant warning signal for many to finally take action.
The realization that you are suddenly prescribed medication to reduce blood pressure can be a huge motivator to reduce stress. Doctors often indicate weight loss, exercise and a reduction in poor nutrient intakes ( a good diet ) as a way to handle stress and lose adipose weight.
The real killer in the stress scenario physically is the hormone cortisol. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol are known to have a cumulative effect which can and often does prove fatal. Heart attacks and strokes are common occurances in stress related deaths.
Stimulant Cycles
Many stress candidates also find that they are caught in a viscious cycle of stimulant use. Caffeine, sugar, tobacco and alcohol and even recreational drugs often creep into the hectic schedules of many people. They may not even be cognizant that the perpetual and increasing use of stimulants have a direct effect on hormone levels. The ups and downs contribute to the overall stress of an individual in many inter-related ways.
How to Help De-Stress
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Be engaging. As the “family” part of the equation, you need to keep your Type-A counterpart actively involved in the domestic scene so that home becomes as compelling as work. Involve you spouse in decisions involving the kids and the color you want to paint the kitchen.
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Tackling health-and-stress issues head-on is usually futile so try a more subtle purposeful approach. Play sports together—with the goal of improving his or her game. Socialize outside of business- sign up for a comedy class.
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Encourage a new interest with emphasis on the accomplishment factor, music to executive ears—learning a new language, for example, to enhance work performance. Hobbies involving animals are wonderfully relaxing and rewarding. Get a horse or a rare-breed dog for diversion and shared pleasure.
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Take charge of daily nutrition. No need for dramatic announcements, simply alter the way you eat without a major discussion—more fruit and vegetables, restrict simple carbs, cut back on alcohol consumption. Decide to shed a few pounds and encourage your spouse to join you.
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Don't be a stimulant junkie. Reduce intake of caffeine, sugar, alcohol and quit smoking. (see resources for helpful information) Drink more filtered water.
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Go to the theater, visit an art gallery, attend concerts—buy your spouse the novel that everyone is talking about. Cultural pursuits have high entertainment value and are both relaxing and stimulating at the same time.
Please see our de-stessing resources in YOUR Resources.
 
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