Stress Management Workshop Held at Southwest Georgia Technical College

Everyone experiences periods of stress due to financial concerns, work, and family obligations. That feeling of being overwhelmed can lead to other problems associated with stress including heath issues. Southwest Georgia Technical College (SWGTC) is offering a workshop on stress management techniques with Psychology instructor Don Crews, May 21 at noon in Building A, room 132 on the College’s campus.

Workplace stress, especially, is on the rise and it is estimated that stress is the underlying factor in 75 - 90% of all physician visits. “It is no secret that stress can affect productivity and a company’s bottom line,” said Crews.  “Reducing stress can reduce costs.” Some of the symptoms of stress are anxiety, irritability, forgetfulness, insomnia, physical exhaustion, and argumentativeness, and loss of self confidence.

“Symptoms like these cost companies billions of dollars each year in health care costs, absenteeism, accidents, quality control, personnel turnover, and various interpersonal relationship problems,” Crews said. “Pressures from work and family can also lead to divorce, alcoholism, and drug use as people find they do not have the tools to manage their stress levels.”

“When we think about stress and its ill effects on our health, we usually refer to ulcers or heart conditions, but stress has a much broader impact. It is known that stress is linked to cancer, lung ailments, cirrhosis of the liver, immunity to common illnesses, back problems, and many other medical problems,” said Crews. “This workshop will offer tips and techniques on how to ease daily stress and to manage it so that hopefully these serious health issues can be avoided.”Identifying the causes of stress such as family problems or job difficulties is helpful in managing the stress.  Some suggestions on dealing with life’s stressors are to break up daily routines, plan well, learn to say “no” to commitments, take mini vacations, develop an enjoyable hobby, to engage in physical activity.

“There are some stress factors that we cannot avoid, such as the death of a loved one or being fired from a job, but you can learn to accept what is happening to you and not let the stress lead to even more problems for you down the road,” said Crews. “Avoid letting the situation and thoughts about it become all consuming.” The workshop is free and lunch will be provided. The public is invited, but is asked to call 227-2795 to register.