Working properly, the body’s stress response enhances a person’s ability to perform well under pressure.   However, the stress response can also cause problems when it overreacts or fails to turn off and reset itself properly.

What causes Stress Overload?
Although a little stress can be a good thing, stress overload is a different story – too much stress isn’t good for anyone.  Ongoing relationship issues, family conflicts, dealing with death, problems at school or work, lack of rest or relaxation are just a few of the things that can cause stress overload.   Signs of stress overload are headaches, stomach problems, sadness or depression, problems sleeping, irritability and moodiness, anxiety, feeling pressured or in a hurry.

How to Manage Stress
The best way to deal with stress is to learn how to manage stress.  Here are just a few a few things you can do to keep stress under control, or better yet, to avoid it in the first place.   Stress management skills work best when they’re used regularly, not just when the pressure’s on.

• Take a stand against over scheduling.  If you’re feeling stretched, consider cutting out an activity or two, choosing just the ones that are the most important to you.
• Be realistic.  Don’t try to be perfect – no one is.  And expecting others to be perfect can add to your stress level too.
• Get a good night’s sleep.  Getting enough rest helps provide your body with the ability to cope with stress.
• Learn to relax.   Participate regularly in activities for fun and relaxation such as reading a good book, spending time with your pet, take a relaxing bath.
• Treat your body well.  Experts agree that getting regular moderate exercise helps people manage stress.  Avoid or cut back on junk food and try to eat a well balanced diet; giving your body the proper vitamins and minerals it needs. 

• Watch what you’re thinking.   Your outlook and attitude influence the way you see things.   A healthy dose of optimism can help you make the best of stressful circumstances.  
• Solve the little problems each day.   Avoiding handling little problems can leave you feeling out of control and will make it much more difficult to handle the life’s larger problems. 
• Learn to adapt to change.   Think of change as a challenging normal part of life and see setbacks as temporary and solvable.
• Have a strong support system.  Build strong relationships and commitments to family and friends.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

For additional help managing stress, your Employee Assistance Program with Blue Cross of California is available to offer assistance.   You can access up to 3 counseling sessions per incident per family per year.   This resource is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day.   To access this resource, call:  800-999-7222 or visit their website at:  www.bluecrossca.com/youreap    Program name: CPI