How to recognize stress – in yourself and those around you

Stress is a natural reaction to the irritants, which everyone can experience.

Its signs, among other, are the following:

• emotions – sadness, fear, aggression;
• behavioral reactions – lack of motivation, avoidance of any activity, manifestations of cruelty, abuse of alcohol or drugs;
• physical reactions – headache, muscle or back pain, trouble sleeping, lack of appetite or digestive problems.

Your condition may be affected by the following:

• you work longer, you often don’t have the energy for work;
• you face discrimination or stigmatization;
• you are worried about your own safety, well-being and lives of your loved ones;
• you understand that you cannot leave work at work – you think about it even at home;
• you interact with traumatic experience: illness, suffering and death;
• you are forced to take care of others.

If stress prevents you from doing everyday things (like going to work), you should seek professional help.

Just like a car needs fuel, your mental health needs a full “tank” – care and constant support. Life with its challenges is a marathon, not a sprint. In order to have strength for a long distance, you should take care of your health and well-being.

Some people because of barriers, stigma and prejudice, find themselves in stressful situations more often or deal with more serious consequences. These people are:

• people who are at risk or have already experienced violence or discrimination;
• older people, especially those with memory impairment;
• pregnant women;
• people with chronic diseases who need constant access to medical services;
• people with disabilities, in particular with mental disorders;
• children, teenagers and people who take care of them;
• people who have problems accessing services.

The vulnerability isn’t always obvious, so it’s important to show empathy and help everyone who asks.

* Based on the WHO Guide (the name of the adapted Guide is being clarified)