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Everyone needs a certain amount of stress to live well. It's what gets you out of bed in the morning and gives you the vitality and zest to do all sorts of things. Without it, we would have no motivation for many of life�s chores. Stress becomes a problem - 'distress' - when there is too much or too little. A lack of stress means your body is understimulated, leaving you feeling bored and isolated. In an effort to find stimulation, many people do things that are harmful to themselves (such as taking drugs) or society (for instance, committing a crime). Too much stress, on the other hand, can result in a range of health problems including headaches, stomach upsets, high blood pressure and even stroke or heart disease. It can also cause feelings of distrust, anger, anxiety and fear, which in turn can destroy relationships at home and at work. People often feel over-stressed as a result of some event or trigger. This doesn't have to be negative (such as the death of a loved one, redundancy or divorce); it can also be seemingly positive (a new partner, new job or going on holiday). Such feelings can also be acute (as the result of bereavement or loss of a job) or chronic (coping with long-term unemployment or being in a bad relationship). Good and bad stressbusters In order to cope with their stress, many people look to things that are not only ineffective but also unhealthy. Negative stress-management techniques include: * Drinking alcohol. * Denying the problem. * Taking drugs. * Overeating. * Smoking cigarettes. * Angry behaviour. Instead of these harmful techniques, why not try one of the following: * Take a nap - 30 to 40 minutes' downtime will recharge your batteries. * Get a massage - visit a professional massage therapist or ask a friend or partner. * Express yourself artistically - divert your energies into something creative, such as acting, playing an instrument, writing poetry or singing. * Have a laugh - not only will it make you feel better, it will make you look better too. * Be gentle to yourself - we talk to ourselves all the time, even though we're not aware of it. This 'self-talk' determines our attitudes and self-image, so try to change both with a bit of positive chatter. * Meditation, contemplation and relaxation techniques.