When deciding how to manage stress, first of all we need a clear definition of what it is. Naturally we each have our own ways of reacting to and dealing with challenges that daily life throws at us, so it can't be defined as something specific like commuting or balancing your budget. That's not to say these aren't stressful situations though!.

My definition is when circumstances and/or events feel so overwhelmingly complex or demanding that they are beyond my abilities to deal with, physically or mentally. At this point I begin to experience the effects in my body and my thought process. How do you define it?

Some people are much more susceptible to stress than others but there are things we can all do to make our lives less stressful. Notice that I'm not saying 'stress free'. This is because sometimes it is good for us, it can be stimulating and instrumental in motivating us in challenging situations in every day life and our work.

Knowing the facts before you have to think about how to manage stress will help you deal with it more effectively.

Negative Effects

• It affects everyone regardless of age, sex or nationality - you are not alone.

• Can lead to problems eating, sleeping, concentrating, and functioning efficiently when performing normal activities.

• Makes some people aggressive and/or bad tempered which can alienate friends, family and loved ones.

• Can contribute to high blood pressure and heart problems, fatigue and depression.

• Affects decision making and can lead to procrastination.

• Can cause headaches, upset tummy, even panic attacks.

• Ultimately stress could make you turn to achohol, smoking or drugs to escape.

Postive Effects

The following comments sum up the positive side of stress, good to bear these thoughts in mind too!

• "Stress is a burst of energy," says psychiatrist Dr. Lynne Tan of Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. "It’s our body telling us what we need to do."

• "Think about your daily life – when do you get things done?" asks Janet DiPietro, a developmental psychologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. "When you have a deadline, when you have to perform. You want some stress to help you do your best."

Once you've recognized that stress is causing you problems and not having a positive effect its time to act - calmly, gently, don't make managing stress stressful! As you begin to develop your strategy don't rush it, implement it gradually.

Think about what triggers stress for you, what are the feelings you first experience as it builds in you. Are there any practical steps you can take to avoid these triggers or situations?

Set realistic goals, don't add to your stress overload by making a plan that causes you more grief.

Think positive - reward yourself for achievements and coping well.

Learn to use relaxation and breathing techniques. If the word 'meditation' makes you cringe and brings to mind chanting strange words and joss sticks, think again - it can be an excellent way of finding peace in your mind. Meditation is an excellent way lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

Follow these tips for reducing stress when deciding how to manage your life. Deal with one problem at a time and work at it. Keep a diary of how you feel to monitor your progress and if you seem to have hit a wall seek professional help.

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