What is stress?
Anyone who has ever worked in an office would have experienced stress in some degree.
Usually stress is fleeting – it comes and goes away as soon as the root cause resolves itself. However, sometimes it latches on and continues to get worse. Stress feeds on panic, which starts clawing at the peace of mind and ultimately drags the sufferer into the dark and damaging space of anxiety and depression.
However, it’s possible to prevent depression from worsening if one is able to identify the indicators in time. Deteriorating health and disturbed mental state are the most common signs of the onset of depression or severe stress. Few more common indicators of stress are:
- Insomnia (inability to fall asleep)
- Anger and irritability
- Weight loss due to lack of appetite
- Low energy
- High/low blood pressure
- Headaches
- Poor focus
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Each of these further branch out to more health troubles.
What to do if stress is piling up?
Claiming a fool-proof solution against stress would be imprudent and irresponsible but there are tested and tried methods, which may help in curbing the situation before it gets worse.
- What’s bothering you?
Triggers of stress differ from one person to another, which is why it usually helps to know the root cause. Some people are inherently easy-going while others stress out at the slightest hint of an anomaly like sudden increase in work load.
Some of the most common stress triggers are work pressure, strained personal relationships, money-related woes or death of someone close.
Main purpose of identifying the root cause is to find the solution faster. Understandably, it’s difficult to diagnose one’s own problems. Do not hesitate to see a therapist for accurate diagnosis and clear next steps.
- Let it out – talk to someone
It’s difficult to stress this enough but talking about one’s problems has saved numerous lives from utter and complete destruction. As simple as it sounds, discussing personal matters is often the most difficult for people, especially introverts. People hesitate for the fear of being tagged negatively or joked about.
Sit with a close friend over drinks or tea and pour your heart out. The company of friends is extremely therapeutic and is a proven rescue from the depths of abysmal sadness. Also, friends share the most pragmatic quips on situations and equally helpful solutions.
Also, talk to your boss (if your work is visibly affected)
We understand if you raised an eyebrow but hear us out. Stress in personal life trickles into work more often than one likes. Take a deep breath and have a chat with your boss. Obviously, you wouldn’t want to go into details as you would with a close friend but do discuss as much as possible without revealing too much. Believe it or not but bosses too can be understanding. Even if he or she doesn’t offer a solution, even a sympathetic nod would raise spirits and calm nerves.
- Meditate or workout
Meditation is not for the yogis alone. It is known to calm nerves and promote clarity of thought. It’s definitely not an instant solution but daily practice will certainly help in strengthening your train of thought. Similarly, exercise also helps in raising spirits, gives more energy and keeps you healthy. Essentially, it keeps the blues away and lets you focus on important tasks at hand.
- Seek professional help
There is only so much one can take by themselves. If you have exhausted all the windows of help, then do not hesitate to meet a specialist. This may be the most difficult part but believe it when we say it, stress and depression is nothing to be ashamed of. Life throws curve balls at everyone. Catching it calmly is the trick.