Stress is a part of life that impacts not only your mind but also your body. Stress may be either positive or negative; often predicted by our perception of a situation. Some stressors, things that cause stress, can be avoided while others cannot. Avoid the stressors you can and learn to cope with the others. Coping involves establishing stress management techniques through learning and practicing stress management skills. These techniques will help you create balance in your daily life.

Signs and Symptoms of Stress

• Tension or discomfort in neck or shoulders
• Chronic anger, hostility, or frustration
• Fatigue
• Nightmares or sleep disturbances
• Recurrent headaches
• Chest pain or heartburn
• Low or no motivation
• Irritability
• Inability to concentrate
• Change in eating habits
• Constant thinking of troubled thoughts
• Isolation
• Increased smoking or alcohol consumption

If you are experiencing any of the above signs or symptoms, consider a medical evaluation by a health care provider to exclude other medical concerns.

If you are confident it is stress related or would like more information about stress and/or stress management, on campus contact the Counseling Center, Health Promotion or
the Student Health Services.

Other Resources
Medline Plus
National Mental Health Association - Coping with Everyday Problems