In today’s society, stress has become a popular topic.  Many of us struggle to manage our daily stressors, often leaving us feeling overwhelmed. Being resilient against these stressors can help in reducing this feeling, and failing to cope effectively could lead to psychological and physical illness. Stress can be defined as a biological and psychological response to encountering a perceived threat.  Experiencing a certain degree of stress is normal and is a necessary component of daily life.  High levels of stress cause negative psychological and biological symptoms, which inhibit one’s ability to engage in fulfilling occupations. Common effects of stress on the mind, body and spirit include:

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Headache, muscle tension or pain, and fatigue

Stomach upset

Sleep disturbances

Anxiety and depression symptoms

Overeating or under-eating

Anger and irritability

Social withdrawal

Substance use or abuse