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Epilepsy, Stress in the Workplace
People with epilepsy must take into consideration hunger, lack of sleep, missed medications and stress. All these factors can lower a person's seizure threshold, increasing the likelihood of having a seizure. The seizure threshold is the susceptibility of a person to have seizures.
"Although epilepsy may take place in the brain, it may profoundly influence the morale, well-being, self-image and lifestyle…may briefly change the way a person thinks, feels and acts…. But how someone thinks, feels and acts may also change his or her epilepsy." Dr. Tim Betts. Epilepsy and Stress (British Medical Journal 15.8.92)
It is medically accepted that a number of common nonspecific environmental factors may lower a person's seizure threshold. These include psychologic stress, menstruation, poor nutrition, sleep deprivation, alcohol or sedative drug withdrawal, fever, infectious processes, head trauma, and various toxic and metabolic conditions which can disrupt water, pH and electrolyte balance, and energy metabolism.
Because stress lowers the seizure threshold, people with epilepsy should establish an effective stress management system. The workplace can be a very stressful environment at times. It is extremely important that persons with epilepsy identify what causes them stress at work and determine methods to effectively cope with it.
Stress is nothing new. A certain amount of stress can be advantageous at times. It may give you the stimulation and motivation necessary to overcome the many obstacles that could prevent you from achieving your goals. However, if your stress level is too high, it may negatively affect your overall health, everyday performance and social behaviour.
Are You Stressed?
At times, stress can be difficult to pinpoint and understand. The Canadian Mental Health Institute states:
"Strangely, we are not always aware that we are under stress. The habits, attitudes, and signs that alert us to problems may be hard to recognize because they have become so familiar."
The following simple test created by the Institute may help determine how stressed you are.
Your Stress Index
Give yourself 1 point for each time you answer yes to one of the following questions.
Do you frequently:
- neglect your diet?
- try to do everything yourself?
- blow up easily?
- seek unrealistic goals?
- fail to see the humour in situations
- others find funny?
- act rude?
- make a "big deal" of everything?
- look to other people to make things happen?
- have difficulty making decisions?
- complain you are disorganized?
- avoid people whose ideas are different from your own?
- keep everything inside?
- neglect exercise?
- have few supportive relationships?
- use sleeping pills and tranquillizers
- without a doctor's approval?
- get too little rest?
- get angry when you are kept waiting?
- ignore stress symptoms?
- put things off until later?
- think there is only one right way
- to do something?
- fail to build relaxation time into your day?
- gossip?
- race through the day?
- spend a lot of time complaining
- about the past?
- fail to get a break from noise and crowds?
What Your Score Means
- 1-6 — There are few hassles in your life. Make sure, though, that you are not trying so hard to avoid problems that you shy away from challenges.
- 7-13 — You've got your life in fairly good control. Work on the choices and habits that could still be causing you some unnecessary stress in your life.
- 14-20 — You're approaching the danger zone. You may well be suffering stress-related symptoms and your relationships could be strained. Think carefully about choices you've made and take relaxation breaks every day.
- Over 20 — Emergency! You must stop now, rethink how you are living, change your attitudes, and pay careful attention to diet exercise and relaxation.
Stress in the WorkplaceWhy is the workplace stressful at times? A hopeless feeling of work overload. A personality conflict, especially with the boss. A boring, repetitious job. A promotion an employee feels s/he cannot handle. These are all part of the primary causes of excessive on-the-job stress. They can make any valuable employee snap.
Unfortunately, many employees ignore the warning signals, such as - fatigue
- insomnia
- high blood pressure
- headaches
- ulcers
- heartburn
- changes in appetite, and
- an inability to concentrate or relax.
In addition, stress can definitely lower the seizure threshold for those with epilepsy. At work you will occasionally be criticized for real or imagined shortcomings in your performance. If you take it too personally, it can lead to chronic stress which may make the workplace unbearable at times.
There are acceptable ways to deal with anxiety, criticism, anger and stress. During the first few weeks of a new job, you must listen and learn the unwritten rules of the workplace. This will help you deal with your on-the-job difficulties in ways that do not conflict with the rules.
Facts about Workplace Stress
from the Canadian Mental Health Institute
1. Workplace stress is the most common form of stress experienced by Canadians.
2. Of Canadian adults 30 years of age and older, 43% feel overwhelmed by their jobs, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Annual Report Card on Canadians' Health.
3. Canadian workers view job stress as more prevalent than work related injury or illness.
4. Canadians are not alone: job-related stress has been identified by the World Health Organization as a "worldwide epidemic".
5. Not all stress is bad: without some degree of stress, people become bored and depressed. However, ill health can occur when our response to stress is not channelled properly.
6. It is estimated that 40% of employee turnover is due to job stress.
7. Job stress is a major factor in employee absenteeism. Statistics Canada calculates the annual cost of work time lost to stress at CDN$12 billion.
8. Workplace stress has been shown to cause backaches, migraines and substance abuse, all of which contribute to poor job performance.
9. Chronic stress can lead to hypertension, depression and susceptibility to other common physical illnesses.
10. Less obvious results of workplace stress are the feelings of frustration, anger and hopelessness which affect stressed employees.
Eliminating Stress at WorkIt is not possible to completely eliminate the stress from the workplace. Besides, that would definitely not be a good idea. Some stress is necessary to get things done. However, too much stress can damage our body. Therefore, each individual must develop a personal stress balance. After all, how much stress is too much is an individual question.
Before you can effectively counter undue stress, you must learn everything you can about it. - What is causing you stress at the workplace?
- What are your symptoms?
- In what ways is this stress interfering with your life and the work place?
- How can you cut the stress down to size?
The answers to all these questions come after self evaluation. You might find this to be an overwhelming and a daunting process. Consider seeking help to manage your on-the-job stress. Even a simple task of speaking to a friend may be helpful.
Accepting and Giving CriticismWhen a supervisor or co-worker criticizes you, stop and listen carefully. Make sure you understand what it is they are upset about. If you can look at the situation from their perspective, you may be able to understand why they are concerned.
Do not take the criticism as a personal attack, this will only cause unnecessary psychological stress. If possible, simply take the criticism constructively.
Do not give criticism make when you are angry. Try to see the situation from the receiver's perspective. Do not speak on behalf of the other members of the staff. Say "I think," rather than "we think." When criticising, clearly explain what concerns you, do not embarrass or pass judgement on the person.
Remember that recognizing and applauding good performance is more effective than criticising bad performance.
Communicating in the WorkplaceCommunication is the best method to deal with your anger. Always "keep your cool." A shouting match at the workplace is definitely not helpful. Be sure to understand your motives before you talk about an issue. Re-evaluate your take on the situation. Are you trying to defeat the person, or solve the overall problem?
Be assertive, not aggressive. Being assertive means expressing yourself in a calm yet firm manner. People with an assertive personality realize the importance of understanding and compromising to reach a solution. If you are having trouble communicating your anger, don't hesitate seeking some help. Talk to a friend or a counsellor about your problem.
Asking for a RaiseWhen you start working at an establishment, chances are your pay will be at the low end of the scale. The company may not want to invest too much in a stranger who may leave. Make sure that you wait at least a few months before you consider asking for a raise.
Asking for a raise may cause you stress. However, if it is done with a lot of thought and in the right manner, the consequences are usually positive. After all, the worst that can happen is that you will not get it. Ask, do not demand. When talking to your supervisor, outline all the positive things you have done on the job (good performance, extra work, punctuality, good work relationships, etc.) Emphasize how much you have learned about the job and what you are doing for the company in return. Although good relationships will not necessarily give you a raise, poor relationships may ruin your opportunity. The perfect time to ask for a raise is an hour or so before the end of your shift on Friday. People are usually in a good mood and are looking forward to the weekend.
Managing Stress
Relaxation TechniquesRelaxation is a powerful tool which can help you deal with stress. There are many effective relaxation techniques. Results will obviously vary from person to person. Many people simply do not know how to relax. Patience is the key for these people, as it may take some time to learn. The following example of a relaxation technique may be helpful to you.- Find a warm, quiet room where you will not be interrupted.
- Sit in a comfortable chair, take off your shoes, uncross your legs and rest your arms on the arms of the chair.
- Close your eyes, be aware of your body.
- Start to breathe slowly and deeply, expanding your abdomen as you breathe, then raising your rib cage to let more air in until your lungs are filled right to the top. Hold your breath a couple of seconds and then breathe out slowly allowing your stomach and rib cage to relax to empty your lungs completely. Do not strain; with practice it will become much easier. Continue this slow, deep, rhythmic breathing while you relax all of your muscles. Remember to breathe deeply and to allow a feeling of physical well-being spread throughout your body. Deep breathing provides extra oxygen to the blood and causes the body to release endorphins, naturally occurring hormones which re-energize and promote relaxation.
- Visualize a favourite, peaceful object or place and when you decide to open your eyes, tell yourself you will be perfectly relaxed but alert.
MeditationMeditation has to do with relaxing the mind, focussing on your breathing, and using techniques such as observing thoughts and emotions. Research shows that meditation can contribute to an individual's psychological and physiological well-being. This is accomplished as meditation brings the brainwave pattern into an alpha state, which is a level of consciousness thought to promote healing.
There are many documented benefits to meditation, such as decreased anxiety, decreased irritability and moodiness, decreased depression, improved learning ability and memory, increased self-actualization and increased emotional stability.
ExerciseRegular exercise will help you keep fit and promote a healthy appetite. Exercise provides a sense of well being, as well as a break from day to day worries. It can give you a sense of achievement and control over your body. Simple movements such as stretching, rocking, and moving hands and arms can relax and calm the body.
Assertiveness TrainingAssertiveness is an approach that helps you communicate your ideas in an effective manner without aggression. This technique emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting the other persons in a discussion.
Time ManagementTime management is a skill that develops with time and experience. Techniques such as establishing priorities, using lists, notes and a diary, taking time for yourself, and rewarding yourself for a job well done, may be effective. Remember: time is valuable so use it wisely.
Improving Self-EsteemThe effects of low self-esteem cause stress for many people. By focussing on your skills and positive characteristics, you can build on positive thoughts about yourself. Increasing your self-esteem involves actively learning about yourself and taking more control of your life.
Anxiety ManagementAnxiety has been described as a vague fear that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen, even if there is no real threat. It generates that worried, "uptight" feeling. Help diminish anxiety by taking control of your life and identifying your fears. Do not anticipate that problems will always occur. Anxiety may result from holding back feelings you can't cope with or don't understand; or it may grow out of a conflict between what you would like to do and what you think you ought to do.
Ten Ways to Help You Reduce Your Stress Level
1. Exercise either indoors or outdoors. It's up to you. At least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise 3 to 4 times a week.
2. Breathe slowly and deeply. Try to close your eyes to enhance the effect.
3. Eat Right! Get a copy of Canada's Food Guide and follow it.
Remember to always eat a nutritious breakfast before you leave your home.
Your body needs the energy to fight stress.
4. Talk to someone about your problems and your worries.
5. Manage your time by organizing your life: make lists, keep a calendar, plan ahead and set priorities.
6. Sleep. Make sure you get enough!
7. Visualization. Practise closing your eyes, and imagining you're on your dream vacation!
8. Hobbies or Clubs. Take up a hobby or join a club! What are your special talents.
9. Remember: coffee, tobacco, and non-prescription drugs should not be relied upon as stress relievers.
10. Laugh. Laugh a little! Laugh a lot!
How long has it been since you have seen a funny movie or heard a good joke?
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association there are several things you can do to create balance in your life. It can mean the difference between mental health and mental illness.
Ten Steps to Mental Health
1. Build a healthy self-esteem.
2. Make time for nurturing yourself.
3. Create supportive family relationships and friendships.
4. Make pleasurable activities part of your routine.
5. Create a manageable budget.
6. Get involved or volunteer.
7. Learn to manage stress and cope with change effectively.
8. Identify and deal with your moods.
9. Eat well and keep fit.
10. Find a spirituality to call your own.
Protecting Yourself against Stress BurnoutWhen stress is allowed to build up, stress burnout can occur. When this happens, the body needs more energy than it can generate. Insomnia, personality changes and errors in judgement may follow, and serious physical or mental illness can develop. Chronic stress can affect the body's immune, pulmonary and cardiovascular systems, metabolism and brain functioning.
Everyone needs to be aware of the warning signs that can indicate they may be heading toward stress burnout. When signs or symptoms first occur, it is important to recognize them and take steps to alleviate them.
Stress Burnout Signs
- Irritability
- A general distrust of others' intentions
- Lack of physical and/or emotional energy
- Loss of creativity
- Feeling that you are isolated
- Pushing yourself to over-achieve in order to feel good about yourself
If you are experiencing:
- 2 or 3 of these symptoms, you may be headed for burnout
- 4 or 5 of these symptoms, you may be experiencing some stress related physical or mental problems
- 6 of these symptoms, you may be experiencing serious stress related physical health problems
If you are concerned that your stress is out of control, you should contact your family doctor or mental health professional.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)The Canadian Mental Health Association, founded in 1918, is one of the oldest voluntary associations in Canada and the only on to deal with all aspects of mental health and mental illness. CHMA's mandate is to promote the mental health of all people. Throughout its history, the CHMA has helped people to learn to maintain mental health, to look for and identify the signs of mental illness, and to get help and support when they need it.
CHMA programs include housing, employment, peer support, and recreation services for people with mental illness, and stress reduction workshops and public education campaigns for the community at large. The Association acts as a social advocate to encourage public action and commitment to strengthen community mental health services, legislation and policies affecting services. All advocacy is based on the principles of empowerment, peer and family support, participation in decision-making, citizenship, and inclusion in community life.
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Last Modified: 08/09/2006 02:01:50 PM
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