Gateway Student Support Services at the University of Arkansas-Monticello hosted at workshop entitled “Stressbusters” Nov. 18.

    The workshop, given by Phyllis Waldron, was the last one of the semester.

    Waldron said several things about stress; contributing factors, symptoms, signs and coping with it were highlighted.

    The affects of stress-related ailments contribute to about 75-90% of all physician office visits, according to a recent American Psychological Association study.

    “Stress,” Waldron said “is a physical, mental and emotional response to life’s changes.”

    There are different levels of stress. Some might not be notice, while other stresses can be positive and help challenge people, while other stresses might be considered high which can become harmful to one’s health.

    Some of the physical symptoms of stress included, tense muscles, headaches, backaches and upset stomach. It also can contribute to chronic stress problems such as skin problems, cardiovascular disease and even affect reproductive organs.

    Some of the mental signs of stress include finding it hard to concentrate, irritability, intolerance of even minor disturbances and feeling jumpy or exhausted all the time.

    “Your behavior changes when you are under stress.” Waldron said

    Everyone deals with stress differently, based on their life experience. To begin to deal with stress you must ask “What is causing the stress.”  

   Positive ways to deal with stress include listening to music, playing with a pet, practicing deep breathing, meditation or muscles relaxation exercises.

    Negative ways to cope with the stress include criticizing oneself, yelling at family and friends or avoiding social contact.

    Waldron suggested avoiding unnecessary stresses.

     A way to do this includes managed time, having a support person to talk to and changing the way you think.  

   Angel Peoples, a junior majoring in social work, said the information she found most affective was the knowledge that stress causes back and sleep problems.