July 22, 2004

How do you spell relief? R-E-L-A-X-A-T-I-O-N!

That’s the answer from one University of Houston expert, who recommends relaxation to ease the symptoms of stress.

From tight shoulders to headaches to high blood pressure, stress causes minor physical ailments and can lead to more serious illness, according to Lynne Shepherd, staff psychologist in Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and facilitator of an upcoming free stress management workshop at UH.

Sponsored by CAPS, the workshop will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. July 27 in Room 226 of the Student Service Center.

“During the workshop, we will go over some relaxation training and breathing techniques. Pamphlets on stress will also be available,” Shepherd said. “We will also try to help people understand stress and help them realize when they are stressed and how it affects them.”

Because people perceive stress differently, it affects them differently, and coping mechanisms will vary, Shepherd said.

“The key to dealing with stress is finding the right strategy that works for you,” she said. “The workshop will try to help everyone find the right technique that alleviates their stress.”

Shepherd noted that not all stress is bad “because stress is what keeps us sharp. “It’s when we get too much stress that it becomes harmful.”

“Stress can affect our bodies seriously, even affecting the immune system,” she said. “Studies have shown that people with stress heal more slowly.”

By affecting the immune system, stress can make the body vulnerable to all types of illnesses, ranging from minor colds to major diseases like cancer, Shepherd explained.

Stress also can have long-term effects, including such cardiovascular diseases as high blood pressure and arrhythmia. It also can lead to heart attacks and heart failure.

For more information on the stress management workshop or to register, call CAPS at (713) 743-5454. Walk-ins are welcome.

COPING WITH STRESS

• Look at your lifestyle and see what can be changed — in your work situation, your family situation or your schedule.
• Exercise. Physical activity is one of the most effective stress remedies around.
• Time management. Do essential tasks and prioritize the others. Consider those who may be affected by your decisions, such as family and friends. Use a checklist, so you will receive satisfaction as you check off each job as it is done.
• Get enough rest and sleep.
• Give in occasionally. Avoid quarrels whenever possible.
• Have some fun. Laugh and be with people you enjoy.

Brian Campbell
bacampbe@central.uh.edu