Thursday December 7, 2000

Work Place Stress

If your search for success has you stressed, you're not alone. Americans are working harder and longer than ever and it's taking a physical toll. That's the topic of this RXtra report.

Tricia Reese is one stressed out TV producer. The deadlines on her cooking show and the occasional mishaps take their toll… like the day this glass bowl of macaroni and cheese exploded on the set.

She knows she's overstressed when her skin breaks out in a rash, her jaw clenches, and a migraine headache sets in. She says, "There have been days when I've had to literally retreat under my desk."

Stephanie O'hara is a fit model. Clothing manufacturers use her body to make sure their designs fit properly. The pressure to stay the perfect size eight gives Stephanie stomach aches, head aches, but worst of all - her hair falls out... even her eyelashes and brows.

She says, "Chunks of my hair came completely out so my head was like skin, there was absolutely nothing left."

Dr. Richard Lippin, of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, says, "There is no question that stress can kill."

Dr. Lippin studies people who suffer from work-related stress. He points out that while some stress on the job can be invigorating. watch out for symptoms of too much... from insomnia and stomach problems, to mood swings.

He says, "These are red flags that the body is giving us to tell us we might be overstressed and it's better to intervene at that point rather than wait for a full blown heart attack."

So how does stress make us sick? It can weaken the immune system, leading to all kinds of health problems, from the common cold to heart disease.

Stephanie reduced stress by working less, relaxing more and eating right. After a year, her hair began to grow back. Like most people, Stephanie, and Tricia don't want to find an another job, they like their work, even if it makes them sick sometimes.

Tricia says, "I don't like the stress, but at the same time I am addicted to it. I think it makes me feel excited and alive sometimes."

So here's a little free advice for cutting your stress level. Take frequent work breaks, watch your diet, and check if your company offers stress management training.