Stress Assessment Essay Example

Stress is an integral part of life, which can have both harmful and beneficial effects. The response of stress is chiefly determined by our problems, transition, and events (Aronson, Wilson, & Akert, 2013). The more individuals experience symptoms of stress, the more it has an adverse effect on their lives. Managing stress and finding the balance may be challenging but moving towards strategies that can make it better is essential (Aronson, Wilson, & Akert, 2013). The following is a self-assessment scale that would help me determine the type and degree of stress I am experiencing. I will also reflect on the ways the stress symptoms can be dealt with.

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All the stress symptoms as outlined in the stress symptoms chart were checked and the frequency of each symptom in different time of the day (lunch, dinner, bed) was noted. From the analysis, I realized that there were some symptoms that I experienced more often than the others especially after classes and during lunch hours. Besides, sometimes I felt in a certain way and assumed it was normal not knowing that I was stressed up. All the symptoms I experienced had a negative impact on my life, and I had to find ways to change or eliminate them.

The events such as strict schedules, load of classes, long walk back and forth on campus, and leadership roles during the week contributed to the stress symptoms. Bit by bit, everything was breaking down I was too busy to realize it. Something was eating me inside, and I could not help but wonder what was wrong. My weight felt impossible to manage; I was taking painkillers on a daily basis, fighting mood swings, and unable to calm my mind especially during the night or whenever I was alone. At first, I believed I had all under control until I visited the family doctor who figured out the onslaught of problems and out-of-whack hormones that were making my life a living hell. There and then, I realized how much stress can be a health challenge, which requires proper management for the body to heal and improve.

Although good stress allows you to stay focused and alert, bad stress can cause damage to our overall health and well-being. I could not realize that I was stressed until it started to have interpersonal issues, emotional issues, mental issues, relationship issues and health problems such as anxiety, sleep problems, headache, constipation and physical pain. I used nutrition to correct the state of my mind and body, and relieve stress (Aronson, Wilson, & Akert, 2013). Whenever my anxiety and stress were at their worst, the healing power of nutrition worked miracles and allowed my body to heal. I also focused on the element of faith which includes the complete health of the mind, body, and spirit (Aronson, Wilson, & Akert, 2013). This approach encouraged me to take responsibility and relinquish control of my health, and that only God-given joy and piece could heal me. Besides, I chose other healthy alternatives such as breathing techniques, meditation, and exercise to relieve stress symptoms in my body (Aronson, Wilson, & Akert, 2013).

Stress is a crucial health problem for many people. With nutrition adjustments, exercising regularly, the body would respond positively to stress. Although I have gotten better, I still have my struggles, and I approach them more different than before. Today, I structure my days well, and I make better choices on how I spend my time and respond to situations. My mind is at peace without stress, and my body continues to heal and improve day after day.

Reference

Aronson, E., Wilson, T. D., & Akert, R. M. (2013). Social psychology (8th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.