Heart Disease

Almost everyone at one time or another experiences stress. The effects of stress are the result of the hormone epinephrine (adrenaline), which is released into the blood, speeding up the heart and increasing the blood pressure. The release of epinephrine can be triggered by anything we are worried about at work, in our private lives, or when any excess physical or mental demands are made on us.

Being subjected to stress on an occasional basis is not usually harmful. Continual stress, however, will eventually have a detrimental effect on your health. Whether you suffer because of stress depends on your reaction to it. The following are some good tips on how to cope with stress:

• Plan your day.
• Set realistic deadlines for work.
• Adapt to the situation.
• Try not to fight the stress.
• Exercise regularly.
• Balance your diet.
• Put time aside each day to relax.
• Take time off — a change of routine can help you to relax.