CNN NEWS REPORT "Stress"

Watch the report and answer the following questions.

a) Make a list of all the reasons that can trigger stress and anxiety.
b) Make a list of all the health problems that stress can bring about.
c) Make a list of the solutions and things to do if you feel you may be suffering from stress-related symptoms.

TAPESCRIPT:

The stock market, foreclosures, unemployment... This are stressful times. 52-year old Steven Vogel had a great job, with a great company. But 8 months ago they downsized and, suddenly, he was without a job.

(SV)

that brings on a lot of uncertainty, and anxiety

For Vogel, the stress and the unknown kept him up at night.

(SV)

Being very concerned about when, or if, for that matter, this situation was going to end.

His anxiety got so bad he sought professional help. Stress whether big or small can have a big impact on our health over time. When we are stressed our kidneys secrete the hormone cortisol into our bloodstream. It is usually triggered by a moment of panic. Too much cortisol can lead to changes in weight, headaches, muscle problems, high blood pressure. These symptoms can build up over the years, causing such conditions as diabetes and heart disease as we get older.

In our thirties new jobs, marriage, and family can create anxiety.

(Doctor Robert Schwartz)

From the children being sick, or having behavioral problems, or just managing their life, taking kids from one place to another, along with their own lives, it’s complicated.

In our 40s, job stability may become a bigger factor. And keeping up with housing costs, and family issues can stress out even the most stable of people.

Small children become teenagers, there are issues…. problems with their families…

And in our 50s, retirement, elderly parents, college expenses, even family health history can cause many to lose sleep.

Very often they have a parent who’s had heart disease, or diabetes, or something like that, and unconsciously they stress over whether that is going to occur to them.

If the stress gets to be too much, seek help. Don’t keep stress bottled up. And be aware of stress signs, such as: loss of sleep, constant muscle pains, chest tightness and heart palpitations. These are signs you need to see a physician.

For Steven Vogel life has gotten better. He has a new job, and he credits his doctor for helping him get through one of the most stressful times in his life.