Stress is a natural part of everyday life. Left unchecked, however, stress can cause physical, emotional, and behavioral disorders which can affect your health, vitality, and peace-of-mind, as well as personal and professional relationships.

Everyone handles stress differently, some better than others. If you think you have too much stress I your life, it may be helpful to talk with a doctor, member of the clergy or other caring professional. Because reactions to stress can be a factor in depression, anxiety and other mental and emotional disorders, they may suggest that you consult with a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or other qualified mental health counselor.

Here is a checklist of negative reactions to stress and tension:

Do minor problems and disappointments upset you excessively?
Do the small pleasures of life fail to satisfy you?
Are you unable to stop thinking of your worries?
Do you feel inadequate or suffer from self-doubt?
Are you constantly tired?
Do you experience flashes of anger over a minor problem?
Have you noticed a change in sleeping or eating patterns?
Do you suffer from chronic pain, headaches, or back aches?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, consider the following suggestions for reducing or controlling stress:

Be realistic. If you feel overwhelmed by some activities, learn to say NO!

Shed the "superman/woman" urge. No one is perfect, so don't expect perfection from yourself or others.

Meditate for ten to twenty minutes.

Visualize how you can manage a stressful situation more successfully.

Take one thing at a time. Prioritize your tasks and tackle each one separately.

Take on a hobby that will give you a break from your worries.

Live a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, adequate rest, regular exercise, limited caffeine and alcohol,
           and balanced work and play.

Share your feelings with family and friends. Don't try to cope alone.

Give in occasionally. Be flexible.

Go easy with criticism. You may be expecting too much.