Stress
Are you busy or stressed? When does the balance tip from short-term, beneficial stress to a long-term stress condition which is harmful for you? Stress is not an illness but it can cause serious illness. Therefore, you should react if you experience symptoms of long-term stress in yourself or others.
What is stress
Stress can be defined as a state of physical and mental overload. Stress can occur when external demand or the individual's own demands exceed the resources available.
You can prevent stress by strengthening your mental health.
If you experience several of the following symptoms for a long period of time, it might be a sign of stress
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Sweat
- Inner agitation
- Stomach aches
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent infections
- Worsening of chronic disease, such as psoriasis and diabetes
Source: Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø
If you experience several of the following symptoms for a long period of time, it might be a sign of stress
- Disinclination
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Restlessness
- Low mood
Source: Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø
If you experience several of the following symptoms for a long period of time, it might be a sign of stress
- Insomnia
- Lack of engagement
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Indecisiveness
- Increased use of stimulants, such as coffee, cigarettes and alcohol
- Increased sickness absence
Source: Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø
Do you think that it is difficult or transgressive to talk about stress? Here are 5 tips to start the dialogue.
1. Be direct: Say openly and honestly why you are concerned. For example, you can say: I think you seem sad and that worries me.
2. Be yourself:Do not be afraid to say something wrong. Silence and isolation is worse. Admit if you find it difficult to talk about or understand.
3. Be interested: Do not think that you can or should solve other people's mental problems. Be inquisitive and ask how the person is feeling. Listen, show interest and offer your support and help.
4. Be persistent:Do not give up if you are rejected. It is a completely normal reaction. Tell the person that you are here if he/she needs to talk or needs help.
5. Be committed:The term stress is often indiscriminately used for general busy periods. If you feel unsure about whether to react to what you see, it may help you search for knowledge about what stress is and what the signs are.
Source: mentalsundhed.dk