Today's modern way of life predisposes a person to stress compared with decades ago. The way of life has become so complicated and more competitive that it creates more stress, tension and anxiety. Drugs have been formulated to counter stress and anxiety. Tranquilizers became popular, relieving thousands of stressed-out individuals. This type of drug provides a calming effect on a nervous person, making him overcome any physical or emotional difficulties. Tranquilizers mimic the effects of alcohol or barbiturates on the brain. This sedates a person, making him less alert. One is advised not to drive a car or operate complicated machinery when under the influence of a tranquilizer. Caution must be taken when using this type of drug since it affects one's attitude and behavior. Its calming effect makes a person less aware of his problems and provides a get away from the anxieties of life. Having experienced such relief, one may tend to look for the same kind of effect every time stress, conflict and anxiety come along. Repeated episodes may predispose an individual to drug dependency and his ability to cope with life's realities will be impaired. Stress is a fact of life and nobody can escape from it. Every human accomplishment requires dealing with stress one way or the other. Avoiding stress is not the solution. Try to develop the ability to adapt to it in any given situation and when you do, the basis for anxiety is diminished and this makes you a happier person. Unrewarded stress has both physical and mental component. A person is not healthy, physically and mentally when he has not learned how to adapt to stress. Every part of his body will have a negative reaction to it. Here are some wholesome and effective ways to deal with stress without using drugs. 1. You should provide yourself equal opportunities for work and fun. Although you have to work to provide for your needs, at the same time you should also allow yourself to do some activities that will give you personal satisfaction. 2. You should spend time on wholesome activities. Swimming, cycling and walking are some of the worthwhile activities that will enable you to release your stress and anxieties. Even playing with your children can make a difference in relieving some tension from work and other stressful situations. 3. Learn to relax even for a few minutes, two or three times a day. For example, if you are working for the whole day in front of a computer, take some time out and relax for a few minutes. Stretch your muscles and give your eyes some much-needed rest. Stand up and get some coffee or take some long deep breaths. Your brain and muscles need to relax and calm down; even a few minutes break will prove beneficial to your well-being. Get enough sleep. Stress also stems from the lack of sleep and rest. 4. Believe in yourself. Have confidence in yourself, your associates and the people around you. Nurture an attitude of trust. Generating positive thoughts will have beneficial effect. |
