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  • Writer's pictureDr Jacob D. van Zyl

Me and Tree Blog 11

(You can contact me on 013 752 2000 for an appointment)


MOVE OUT FROM UNDER THE DARK SHADOW OF STRESS


THE PROBABLE CAUSES OF STRESS



Any stress is caused by a stimulus. There are external, as well as internal stimuli which act as stressors. Any stimulus (external or internal) that disturbs the homeostasis (balance) in the body, can be described as a stressor. External stimuli include noise or danger, while internal stimuli relate to things like continuous anxiety, extreme emotions, apprehension and conflict in relationships.


A broad spectrum of causes

I was involved in a series of stress-handling workshops for groups of employees. It subsequently became clear that there are countless causes of stress of which I will name but a few:

· stress caused by the employer’s autocratic style of management;

· blocked communication channels in the work environment;

· extremely difficult deadlines;

· interpersonal stress with colleagues;

· budget shortages resulting in inadequate equipment and aids;

· work pressure as a result of staff shortages, leading to longer working hours;

· a need for more free time, relaxation or a holiday;

· financial stress (often as a result of inadequate personal planning);

· marital stress;

· anxiety about too little time to spend with children, and a need to do exactly that, but due to work pressure is not possible.


More specific causes of stress


Unresolved conflicts from the past



In my career as a psychologist for the past twenty four years, I have come to realize, that people’s unresolved conflicts from their past can cause a lot of stress. It is therefore very important to live mindful: to live in the present and to focus on the here and now – to be completely focused on the significance of the present moment. I have found that patients internally struggle with unresolved issues for years. As soon as a situation arises which reminds them of some unresolved issue, they experience intense stress. They also struggle with inner conflict regarding the future that causes worry and pessimism.


Tension between the true and ideal self

Another aspect creating stress in many people is the conflict between their true and ideal self. Who you actually are as opposed to who you would like to be. This difference between who you are and who you would like to be, can be as deep as the ocean – it tears at your personality and causes ongoing inner stress. It is necessary for you to work through these contradictions, of how you perceive yourself, in order to lead you to a point of acceptance and peace with yourself.


Immoral / unethical behaviour

One of the employees who participated in the stress-handling workshops, confessed that his dishonesty (probably related to some form of corruption) caused much stress for him. Another case was that of an older patient of mine who experienced intense stress after an extra-marital affair with a young girl had been discovered. His marriage, family life and business all suffered immense damage as a result thereof. All he had left after his affair were emptiness, depression and stress. From a Christian perspective it can not be denied that sin and turning away from God’s ways cause stress…


Stress in the context of society

Internationally – we find ourselves in a time of constant transformation – a time of exponential development in technology, adaptation to the postmodern spirit of the time and the explosion of knowledge - recently a twelve year old primary school scholar blurted out: “These days everything is about information…It is just the way it is!”. These all act as stressors in our lives. There are many external factors influencing us; many voices claiming to show the true or only way forward. Therefore it is all the more crucial to cultivate our awareness (mindfulness), discernment, inner strength, spirituality, stability and balance in our lives. We need this in order to cope with the lack of structure in the world, the subjectivity and the open-mindedness to alternatives (of “anything goes”), which are inherently part of postmodern times.



In my next blog, I am planning to discuss other causes of stress like work related stress, the pursuit of material things, your craving for pleasure and immediate satisfaction followed by the handling of stress from a psychological perspective.


Please feel free to make a comment in this blog about the above mentioned causes of stress or perhaps your unique cause of stress.

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